In Tamil, the word "Mattu" means bull, and this day of Pongal is for the celebration of cattle, particularly bulls that play a vital role by working hard to help the farmers to raise crops on their fields.
View MoreIt is observed at the start of the month Tai according to the Tamil solar calendar, and this is typically about January 14. It is dedicated to the Hindu sun god, the Surya, and corresponds to Makar Sankranti, the harvest festival under many regional names celebrated throughout India.
View MoreSoya chunks are made using soy flour that has been ‘defatted’ or the oil is removed. They are the byproducts left after extracting soybean oil and have a rough texture when left dry. The texture quickly changes to soft and spongy as soon as submerged in warm water.
View MoreThe date (Phoenix dactylifera) is the fruit of the date palm. It is a berry of golden yellow color or reddish-brown when ripe. Its meat is soft, aromatic, and sweet, with a stone inside it of elongate shape and with a longitudinal furrow. Dried dates are kept in fresh and dry places for several months, even a year.
View MoreFennel seed is a highly aromatic and flavourful herb, derived from a shrub. The seeds are pale greenish in colour and have a faintly sweet and refreshing flavour. In some parts of the world, people chew plain or sugar-coated fennel seeds after a meal. Chewing fennel seeds is thought to help aid digestion and prevent gas.
View MoreRaisins are packed with energy and rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals. They are naturally sweet and high in sugar and calories, but they are beneficial to our health when eaten in moderation. In fact, raisins can aid digestion, boost iron levels, and keep the bones strong.
View MoreCumin is a spice that comes from the Cuminum cyminum plant. It is a typical ingredient in many spice blends, such as curry powder. Cumin is a staple spice in many food cultures, particularly Mexican, Indian, African, and Asian cuisine.
View MoreGingelly oil is another name for sesame oil. Sesame oil is an edible vegetable oil derived from sesame seeds. Gingelly oil is high in anti-oxidants and the unrefined variety has the highest quantity of antioxidants of all. gingelly oil also has a good number of minerals such as magnesium, copper, calcium and vitamin B6 as well.
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