Kulith Pithla

An oft heard statement in a Marathi household is, " pithla bhaat karte, lavkar hoeel" ( I will make pithla and rice, that is quick)... This is one handy recipe for the those evenings when energy and enthusiasm are low.
Pithla is a curry made with chickpea flour and is typically served with bhakris and also with rice.
I first tasted this version of pithla at my friend Prajakta's around Diwali time when we made goodies. With all the frying and looking after kids at the same time this pithla came to the rescue making a very tasty meal in minutes!
The truth is, I had NO idea what kulith or horsegram was, the only pithla I have ever eaten is the chickpea/ besan version. My Mother later told me that kulith is widely used by Konkanis.

Kulith has a nutty taste which , for some, can take time adjusting to, but for me it was love at first bite! Kulith pithla with piping hot rice is a perfect combination. In fact I liked it so much that Prajakta gave me a small packet. I used it sparingly till my in-laws came for a visit and got one more packet for me. This recipe was a hit with my ma in law, who though hates garlic, loved this particular recipe and it was made frequently.

To make Kulith Pithla , you need:

2-3 tbsp Kulith powder

2 green chiles (+/- to taste)

2-3 cloves of Garlic, chopped.

2 tbs. Oil

1 tsp EACH Mustard & Cumin seeds

2 pieces Kokum or 2 tbs.kokum syrup

Salt to taste

Few Curry Leaves

1/2 tsp. Red chile powder (optional)
Cilantro, finely chopped.

Water ( to make a paste as well as for the curry)

Mix kulith powder and water to make a paste, set aside.

Heat oil in a kadhai/wok. Add the mustard seeds, when they pop add cumin seeds.

Add the green chile and curry leaves and garlic, fry till garlic is golden brown an does not smell raw.

Add water ( about 1 1/2 cups) and bring it to a boil. Add Kokum/ kokum juice.

Add a tbsp. of chopped cilantro and red chile powder, if using, to the boining water and add salt to taste.

Reduce heat and add the kulith paste, stirring constantly.

Cook for about 3-4 mins.

Remove from heat, garnish with cilantro, serve with hot rice.

Other delicious Kulith recipes on my 'must try' list:

Kulith Saaru
Kulith Vade