Karivepaku Podi (Curry Leaf Powder)

10 sprigs curry leaves – washed and dried
2 Tsp urad dal
2 Tsp chana dal
10-12 red chilies
1 Tsp cumin seeds
½ lime sized tamarind
½ tsp asafetida
1 tsp Salt (to taste) – finely powdered

Heat 2 tsp oil and fry chana dal, urad dal, cumin – add them 10-15 seconds apart. Add asafetida as you turn off the heat. Set these aside.
In the same pan, roast the curry leaves – just use the grease from step 1.
Grind the dals, curry leaves, spices, salt, and tamarind semi-coarsely.

Eat with rice and 1 tsp oil/ghee. Or add a spoonful oil/ghee and eat with dosa or idli.

Optionally, you can also add 2-3 Tsp coriander seeds.

For new mothers, garlic powder is good. Substitute 5-6 cloves garlic for curry leaves. Roast the garlic the same way, add a little bit of oil if need be.