Monday 4 November 2024

TRUTH BE-KNOWN

 

Somewhere in Himachal Pradesh

“Instead of dying with disappointment, I would rather a deceit that gives me life" a quote attributed to Pierre Corneille, a 17th-century French dramatist. This line reflects themes of resilience and choosing life over despair, consistent with Corneille's exploration of complex human emotions in his plays.

From the Theatre of Illusion, by Pierre Corneille (translated By Richard Wilbur) Act 2, Scene 2:

“Clindor, a young picaresque hero, has been living by his wits in Paris, but has now drifted to Bordeaux, to become the valet of a braggart bravo named Matamore. He is chiefly employed as a go-between, carrying Matamore's amorous messages to the beautiful Isabelle—who only suffers the master because she is in love with the messenger.”

An anonymous said “truth can be an expensive commodity because it often requires courage, sacrifice, and the willingness to face uncomfortable realities”.

Hence seeking and telling the truth can lead to personal, social, or professional costs, which includes damaged reputations or most often strained relationships.

With this in mind, while inherently valuable, truth demands a price that may not be naturally volunteered.

That brings us to the paradox between truth and social justice.

Whilst in pursuit of social justice it often involves magnifying fringe interests and experiences, it may not align neatly with “established truths”. Therefore, in the process of trying to balance honesty with empathy and fairness, it can affect the dynamics between preserving facts and promoting relationship equity.

Whether its private lives or public, building relationship equity is critical in order to foster strong personal and professional relationship which in turn can improve communication and increase commitment to that bond. However, this state of meaningfulness can only be attained through consistent positive interaction, shared experience and mutual support between individuals as well as with other social constructs that the individuals belong to.

In this context I would like to bring forth the concept of “Vyavaharika Satya” (practical truth) which was liberally exercised in the Mahabharata. The Mahabharata itself is an epic poem that was written weaving intricate relationships and moral dilemmas about the complexities of human relationships towards the preservation of relational equity.

As much as the Mahabharata upholds virtue ethics as its primary philosophy, it also acknowledges the complexities that “truth” posts, and therefore it sees concealing truth or bending truth is a necessary evil for the greater good.

To share one incident in the Mahabharata, the “truth conflict” that occurred between Yudhisthira and Drona. Yudhishthira who was an epitome of righteousness was asked to inform Drona (who was his mentor) that his son Ashwatthama was dead. The truth was an elephant by the name of Ashwatthama was killed in the battle, but hearing that his son was dead, Drona threw down his weapons in all sadness, which eventually cost his death. This episode was considered to be one of the most contentious moral dilemma portrayed in Mahabharata. However, the death of Drona was critical in the Bharath war, as it brought an end to further bloodshed because Drona had immense destructive capabilities. This event instantiates that literal truths can be sacrificed if the act brings greater good or prevent greater harm.

The world today is facing even greater relational complexities, more so the need for broader understanding of consequences rather than one’s action. As the song goes “honesty is a such a lonely word” (Billy Joel), we have to tread it wisely and tactfully but that should not be seen as a passport to deceive. Weigh whether the truth will build or destroy, and use compassion when making that decision.

Interestingly the Mahabharata provides a nuanced perspective of truth and in the pursuit of establishing relational equity. Contextual sensitivity and the adherence to compassion are seen as the very essence for the purpose of creating a “meaningful existential equation”.

That reminds me of Viktor Frankl, in his book, Man’s search for Meaning, who says, “Everything can be taken away from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedom – to choose one’s attitude in any given circumstances, to choose one’s own way.” Frankl a proponent of logotherapy, propounds that even in suffering people can find purpose through love, creativity, and endure hardship with dignity.

But then again if truth is beknown, we don’t need divine intervention, do we?

I will leave you with that thought.

Cheers.

ravivarmmankkanniappan@143005112024Latitude, 3° 8' 48.56"N ; Longitude, 101° 32' 20.70"E

Saturday 26 October 2024

Vishwamitra Diplomacy: A Model for Global Harmony and Universal Friendship

 

The Sun Dial Chakra at Surya Temple
Bhubaneshwar, Odisa, India.

The name Vishwamitra translates to "Universal Friend," symbolizing an individual whose essence is deeply rooted in being a friend to all. According to ancient texts, Vishwamitra was born as Prince Kaushika, ascending the throne after his father, King Gadhi of Kanyakubja, grew old. Married to Princess Madhavi, he was a father to four sons and a daughter. His life took a transformative turn after encountering the enlightened Brahmarishi Vashishta, inspiring him to renounce his throne and pursue the path of asceticism. This began his arduous journey to attain the title of Brahmarishi (sage), conferred upon him by none other than Vashishta himself. Beyond his personal journey of self-discovery, Vishwamitra played an essential role in the Ramayana, where he served as the preceptor of Rama and Lakshmana, guiding them on the path of righteousness.

In embodying the meaning of his name, Vishwamitra emerged as a true "Universal Friend," not solely as a ruler but as a sage. As a king, he initially pursued conquest and power, but soon realized that in seeking greater meaning, the injustices he had once imposed would be the greatest betrayal of humanity. This realization compelled him to renounce his throne and embark on a transformative journey, shifting from self-centered desires to selflessness. His legacy became a testament to his commitment to the welfare of all.

Vishwamitra went on to compose the Gayatri Mantra, one of Hinduism's most revered hymns, which continues to serve as a universal invocation for wisdom and enlightenment, transcending all boundaries. The mantra, from the Rigveda (3.62.10), reads:

"Om Bhur Bhuvaḥ Svaḥ
Tat Savitur Vareṇyaṃ
Bhargo Devasya Dhīmahi
Dhiyo Yo Naḥ Pracodayāt"

In essence, this prayer calls upon the divine to illuminate all realms—physical, mental, and spiritual—and bestow true knowledge, removing darkness from the heart.

As a guru to Rama and Lakshmana, Vishwamitra led them towards dharma (righteousness), even in the face of powerful adversaries.

Through rigorous inner awakening, he transcended human emotions that cloud judgment, extracting ego from his psyche and establishing inner peace. This newfound harmony shaped his worldview and underscored his commitment to compassion, which he believed was essential for social harmony. Vishwamitra's emphasis on inclusivity reflected his vision of universal friendship.

Vishwamitra's legacy remains a profound inspiration, demonstrating that even the most formidable obstacles can be overcome through faith and perseverance. His journey showcases the transformative potential of determination, faith, and the human spirit. Brahmarishi Vishwamitra’s philosophy serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of inner growth and selflessness.

In modern times, it is evident why Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invoked the principles of "Vishwamitra Diplomacy" in the realm of global geopolitics. The world today is far more complex than it was fifty years ago. The traditional geopolitical structures of the Cold War have dissolved, and the rise of China and India has introduced transformative shifts that challenge the established U.S.-centric world order. Domestic fragmentation within the U.S. and a fractured global landscape have given rise to ideological extremism as a reaction to socio-political disenfranchisement.

The recent BRICS summit offered a glimmer of hope, demonstrating a potential for cooperative solutions to counter extremism. The fact that the leaders of China and India met for the first time in five years since the Galwan Valley incident and agreed on mutual de-escalation speaks volumes. The induction of Iran as a full member—despite its ongoing tensions with Israel and U.S. sanctions—is a significant milestone. If global peace is indeed a priority, nations should embrace Vishwamitra Diplomacy.

The Principles of Vishwamitra Diplomacy

Vishwamitra Diplomacy is an approach grounded in harmony, unity, and self-transformation for the greater good. This diplomatic model emphasizes conflict resolution through wisdom, patience, inclusivity, and a steadfast commitment to mutual respect, rejecting the use of force or aggression.

Central to Vishwamitra Diplomacy is the idea that nations should engage in self-reflection and work towards continuously improving socio-political relations. This approach involves acknowledging existing biases and addressing them collaboratively. Nations in conflict should first engage in inward reflection, fostering self-growth as a precursor to peaceful resolution.

Brahmarishi Vishwamitra's teachings emphasize that sustainable solutions require an open and inclusive platform for dialogue that respects ideological diversity, cultural heterogeneity, and varied perspectives. In today’s fragmented world, this inclusive approach is critical for building sustainable peace.

Rooted in dharma (righteousness), Vishwamitra Diplomacy would encourage nations to act beyond self-interest, implementing policies that foster collective well-being and social harmony. Stronger nations, in particular, should adopt the role of mentors rather than exploiters, fostering stability without imposing dominance. To embody Vishwamitra's vision of universal friendship, these nations should avoid oppression, exploitation, or interference.

In the words of Brahmarishi Vishwamitra, "Peace should not merely be the absence of conflict but an active construct—a sustainable state of mutual respect, multicultural understanding, and ethical responsibility that nurtures humanity."

While many leaders seek wisdom to foster inclusive leadership, others remain lone agents, driven by self-interest.

My sincere hope is that more leaders will draw inspiration from Brahmarishi Vishwamitra’s wisdom, embracing a diplomatic approach that champions universal friendship and fosters a harmonious world.

ravivarmmankkanniappan@1743261020243.0571° N, 101.5911° E

Wednesday 14 August 2024

The Guilt From The Age of Innocence

 


There was this chubby boy with  black plastic spectacles in my primary school. His demeanour was the butt of jokes in school. He suffered verbal humiliation from everyone, every day, without fail. Sometimes he also has to endure physical abuse from the more emboldened children. Though he was big sized and could take on other children if he wanted to, but he didn’t. I suppose he was mentally broken that he wasn’t able to defend himself. This chap did not complete his high school, nevertheless managed to land a decent job, got married and was blessed with a child. Unfortunately, this poor chap passed on due to a medical complication later on in his life.

Today a good friend of mine from school, shared a few names of our school mates on WhatsApp. Who were these schoolmates, together with the person I mentioned above, there were four others. All these five students have always been subjected to some kind of torment in school.

That reminded me of another person from that list who also did not complete high school, went into drug addiction which eventually led him into petty crime. I met him a couple of times, when I went back to my hometown. On both occasions, he looked very haggard and he was in need of money. I obliged and only later I found out from another friend who caters food to prison, that this chap had been in and out of prison and he had died owing to drug-related health complications.  

One thing I must say, even the teachers at that time, picked on all five of them. Somehow it gave everyone (I mean students) the impunity to do the same to these 5 chaps as well.  

We were after all, 8 year-olds, and as such our actions were based on what we observed. During those day’s teachers were not only our role model but they were regarded next to God.

In Indian philosophy the hierarchy of influence and wisdom starts from, Maatha, Pithaa, Guru, Deivam  (the order is Mother, Father, Teacher and God). I am not deliberately transferring the responsibility to our teachers for our actions, but our actions at that time resembles the analogy of “monkey see, monkey do”.

For us children, we were not at the age of reason to decipher the concept of morality. This was an age we were stepping into the realm of right and wrong. At that age we could not have fully understood all the complicated reasons why something was right or wrong but we were actually beginning to learn about morality and how to make good choices. Hence the observation we made around us influenced our behavior.

Some may ask, what about the moral conditioning at home, doesn’t it affect our behavior?  Well we can’t negate that, but one must understand that the mind of a child works in a compartmentalized manner. According to behavioural psychologists, children between the age of 6 to 9 tend to compartmentalize their thinking by separating different ideas, rules or feelings based on the situation they encounter.

A child may behave differently at home versus school. They may follow a certain code of conduct in school but they may feel a different code of conduct applies at home. Hence they tend to compartmentalize their behavior according to the environment they are in. At this age, children are just beginning to embark on world of morality but their sense of right or wrong would still be based on context. For example, though children may understand that lying is wrong but they may still lie to avoid getting into trouble. Where the child would rationalize the act of lying within the troubling context than it is ok to lie.

It has been over more than 50 years since those tragic events took place but it haunts many of us till today, more so my dear friend who made us to revisit it. But as another friend said, (who happened to be also a victim of such torment) that at some point in our current life we would have paid the consequences of our actions.

This is the age of Kali (Kali Yuga) the end of the 4 cycles of Age, where according to Hindu Cosmology, it is the end of a Mahayuga, before it restarts with a new Mahayuga (another 4 cycles, lasting for about 4,320,000 human years). It is written in the Hindu scriptures, that during the Kali Yuga the consequences of one’s action or Karma will be realized within this lifetime. Based on my own experiences, at different stages in my life, I have gone through certain events that retrospectively when I think, it seems to connect with my past actions. Maybe its coincidence but I always believe that the cosmos works mysteriously.

So the question is, should we carry the burden of guilt for something that we may have committed during the age of innocence? At that age even our brains have not been fully developed and all our actions are based on limited experience, immature emotions, and limited worldview. As a child, making mistakes during our early childhood development is perfectly fine. At that age most of our actions are not based on any specific intent and we may not even fully understand the consequences of our actions.

I sincerely believe that we should practice self-compassion and forgive ourselves for any actions (even being apathetic to some wrong doings) that was committed when we were still too young to envision its implications.

As adults now, perhaps we are able to reflect and contemplate our past actions, so instead of carrying the burden of guilt we can grow and learn from those experiences.  

My friend who was also a victim of such torment said, “for some reason I was never disturbed by it all. I actually laughed at such stupidity. And the Universe has taken care of the actors, and protected me all throughout life”. This is one of the most inspiring and positive reactions that I have ever heard from someone who have been bullied. Perhaps for him, it was one of the experiences that made him resilient and assiduous, which eventually led him to be a successful corporate figure abroad.  

For the remaining 3 guys on the list, no news about them, I just hope and pray that they are doing well, wherever they are.     


ravivarmmankkanniappan@1238150820243.0567° N, 101.5851° E

Sunday 11 August 2024

Dunbar's Number and Social Chaos



It looks like anthropologist Robin Dunbar's, "Dunbar's Number" came through. 

He theorized that humans can maintain stable social relationships with about 150 people, anything more would only lead to chaos and stress. 

Today, we are exposed to vast networks far exceeding this limit, through social media, workplaces, and urban living. This overload will strain our cognitive and emotional capacities, leading to feelings of chaos and social fragmentation. 

A case in point is the current social unrest in the UK. The unrest in the UK is a culmination of transformation that took place since post WW2. The UK became a melting pot of cultural diversity which saw droves of migrants coming into the country from former British Colonies, namely from India/Paksitan, Carribean Islands and Africa immediately after WW2 ended. These arrival actually intensified between the 1960's right through the 1970's and with subsequent waves of immigration, contributed to it's multicultural society today. From 1990's onwards there was another round of immigrants, this time refugees started to knock on the UK borders. These refugees were the outcome of the rising conflicts in the Balkans, Middle East, and Africa (namely from Kososvo. Afghanistan, Iraq and Somalia). 

Unlike in the past, the migration of refugees in the 90's saw a mixed reaction in the UK. Whilst communities in the UK welcomed these refugees and made attempts to socially integrate them, but on the other hand it also made others uncomfortable. Tensions particularly emerged in the areas facing economic pressures, especially where public service is constrained. In some British communities the migrants were viewed suspiciouly which led to social frictions, political debates and formalised anti immigrant sentiments. 

These anti immigrant sentiments has its basis on the rise of Islamic fundamentalism in the UK since the 1990's. The trigger point was the series of terrorist attacks in the UK including the 7/7 2004 bombing. These events has increased suspicions and tensions between Moslems and Non Moslems which gave rise to Islamaphobia and anti Moslem sentiments, which further fractured the social construct of the UK. 

Coupled with economic inequality, unemployment/underempoyment, social fragmentation, and further exacerbated by austerity and political responses have contributed to the underlying frustrations that has spilled over as riots. Rightfully or wrongfully, the riots in the UK are merely a symptom of a myriad of issues that belies the reasons peddled to serve various agendas. 

The UK is just one of the many case studies we can observe about the social disenfranchisement that is happening all over the world. 

It is rather intriguing to note that the quality of relationships seem often diminishes as quantity increases, whereby it reduces meaningful interactions and contributing to a feeling of isolation. Salinger, in Catcher in the Rye has put this human dilemma through Holden's character. Holden feels deeply isolated struggling to connect with others and rejecting phoniness in the society. Holden's loneliness is both a defense mechanism as well as a source of pain as he longs for genuine human connections, which he keeps pushing away. His alienation is sum of the fear of growing up loosing his innocence which further intensifies his loneliness. 

A friend of mine who is a volunteer at a mental health social service centre says that majority of people who seek help suffer from loneliness. So loneliness is a serious issues that plaques people, more so today with all these digital tools it further alienates physical proximity between people. Mind you, Salinger's book was published in 1951, when digital tools were not even heard of, but this phenomenon of loneliness has been addressed then too.

But back to Salinger, then he did not address the fact that human beings can react with a gust of adrenaline rush, and sometimes mob action can motivate this. So even the lonely may react, because at that moment it may give them a sense of purpose beyond logic. 

There is a Tamizh saying, "சாது மிரண்டால் காடு கொள்ளாது" it loosely translatess as "Even the Jungle may not witstand Fury of the Wild Buffalo". Buffallo are are rather passive and non threatening animals, but when they are spooked, they may go on a stampede which would bring the greatest damage in the jungle. Every buffalo regardless of its nature would react owing to this adrenaline rush.

Riots and social unrest manifest owing to multiple reasons, but it may attract even the most passive/introvert/lonely person. A disenfrenchised person may find a sense of belonging because participating in such activity is a form of escapism from being lonely. This can also be an outlet for these individuals to release their pent-up frustrations. Participation in such activity can also give these individuals a sense of identity and empowerment. And more importantly it fits the description of cognitive dissonance, where these individuals belief that their actions are justified and it also helps them to align their actions with their self image.

Relationships are so fragile today that it creates two extremes, one where people cling on to each other for whatever comfort it gives at that moment (to alleviate fear), and the other extreme is a character like Holden (in Catcher in The Rye) who completely alienates oneself out of fear. But one thing that brings these two extremes together is incident like the Southport Stabbing that sparked the riots all over UK. Interesting, "fear" is the common denominator (we will leave this for another day).    

At this juncture, I am inclined to agree with Dunbar, that the mismatch between our evolutionary social limits and modern societal demands has and will continue to contribute to stress and a perceived loss of community, in contemporary society. I am not sure if 150 is the magic number but "fear and trust" becomes highly flamable as the numbers increases in a community. 

So the question is, can we turn the clock back? 

Will society voluntarily go back to basics? 

Umpp.... that is a tough one. 

Perhaps the prophecy of Kalki Avatar is not wrong afterall,........ the resetting of the world order is inevitable.

Cheers.

(Note: Next Change, Kalki Avatar)


ravivarmmankkanniappan@14200110820243.0567° N, 101.5851° E

Sunday 30 June 2024

Dinner at BEARDO's

Got some fresh prawns from Sekinchan today, and had this idea of making Paella for dinner. So got the prawns cleaned and prepared the ingredients.


Must say I cheated on many counts, didn't have the correct Paella rice, so substituted it with basmati rice. Oh yes, Basmati rice. So marinated the prawns with Tumeric, chilly powder and a little salt. Again, substituting saffron with tumeric. On with ingredients, chopped garlic, chopped onions, chopped tomatoes, chopped carrots, chopped fresh button mushroom, chopped chillies, and added chopped cashew nuts and muscat grapes.  For sauteeing, it's olive oil and wine. Preferably white but I used red wine. 


Heat pan and add olive oil. Do not let the oil to over heat as olive oil has lower smoke point, and if its heated to its smoke point then it loses its beneficial compounds.


Keep low fire, and once the olive oil is lightly heated then add garlic and onion and sautee the ingredient.


Then add chopped carrots and cashew nut, and keep sauteing, then transfer the chopped tomatoes. Allow it to mix well.


At this stage, transfer the marinated prawns and allow the ingredients to mix well. Add salt to taste and then add wine and allow it to cook for about 5 minutes.


At this stage transfer the cooked basmati rice and stir well. Again I cheated here by using Basmati rice and not the rice meant for Paella. Allow the entire sauteed ingredients to blend with the rice. Sprinkle the chopped red chillies and muscat grapes, and stir well. Then flattened the rice on the pan and close the lid. Allow it to cooked for while so that it gets drier. But dare not leave it too long, because basmati rice, when it gets burned it will alter the taste unlike the Bomba rice (Valencia Rice) which has a different texture that accommodates it. 


Once done sprinkle dried Thyme and Basil, and close the lid till before its served. Remember to serve hot, otherwise it won't give the oomph.


Viola Dinner is served.

Today we had the privilege of having carrot cake for dessert, baked by Chef De Silva. It was not only yummy but went well with the Paella and the Chilean Carbenet Sauvignon.

So do try and let me know your outcome. I must admit, I cheated on this recipe on many counts, and my friend Chef Jega of La Cocina would definitely be crossed of my version because of its distortion from the original.

ravivarmmankkanniappan@101130062024 3.0567° N, 101.5851° E





 

Sunday 14 April 2024

PAALADA PRADAMAN (Milk Rice Payasam)

 

Paalada Pradaman

Was in Palakad, Kerala, last week, visiting Mr&Mrs Prasad, who are my niece's inlaws, for a social visit. They are one of the most hospitable couple we know. Whilst enjoying Keralite cuisine at their home, Greeja and I stumbled upon this wonderful, simple to make Kerala Payasam called Paalada Pradaman, which obviously they served as desert after our meal. By the way for those who do not know what payasam is, it is an Indian sweet desert with pudding/porridge like texture. 

Ingredients

The most important ingredient is called the "ada", which is rice based, kinda crystalised rice. It is specially prepared through a process of pounding, drying and then converted into crystal like texture. Anyway this stuff is also available commercially in Kerala. Mine, I got it from Mrs Maheswary Prasad, who was kind enough to not only share the recipe but also the "ada".

Besides "ada' you will need 1 litre of Milk, Cashew nuts, raisins, cardamom and ghee. By the way I am using "Uthukulli Ghee" for this preparation, one of the finest in India.  

"Ada" being soaked.

Soak the "ada" in plain water for about half an hour. After which it will soften and expand. Use plain room temperature water. Do not use hot water, because it will turn the "ada
soggy. 

The expanded "ada" 

 
Boiling Milk

Pour 1 litre of milk into a pot and allow it to boil slowly. Preferably use fresh milk, otherwise evaporated milk o powdered milk will do. As the milk boils add sugar to taste.

Palm Crystal Sugar

For today's preparation I used palm crystal sugar. This is the finest non refined sugar, which also has a unique taste. I get my supply from India, though it is available in selected Indian stores in Malaysia but pricier. 

"Ada" is added.

Once the sugar dissolves and given another 2 or 3 boils, transfer the entire "ada" into the boiling milk and allow it to boil for another 5 minutes or so. Make sure you stir the mixture constantly otherwise the milk may burn. 

Tampering

Meanwhile transfer 3 - 4 table spoon of "Uthukkuli Ghee" into a pan, and allow it to get heated. Add Cashew nuts, followed by cardamom and then raisins into the heated ghee. Control the fire on your stove so that the items on the ghee do not get burnt. Once the aroma of the cardamom reaches your senses, transfer the entire content into the boiling milk which already has the "ada".

Payasam settling

Off your stove, and allow the content to settle by itself, do not stir,close the lid of the pot. Half an hour later stir the entire mixture and it is ready to be served. 

Paalada Payasam is Ready

Viola your Palaada Payasam is ready. This Kerala Payasam goes very well as a desert for both vegetarian and non vegetarian meal. It is very light and does not give a weighed down feeling after a hearty meal. 

This is one of the easiest payasam to make, unlike other complicated ones which requires technical know hows.

So everyone, do try it out and let me know.


ravivarmmankkanniappan@1251150420243.0567° N, 101.5851° E.









 


 

 

Monday 18 March 2024

Mango Jackfruit Salsa - from Beardo's new retro Kitchen

 



The Mango Jackfruit Salsa

After a long hiatus "I AM BACK". In actual fact Beardo and Family have been busy since last November. It was my niece's wedding in Pallakad, India, followed by a reception in Segamat, Malaysia. After that, the long overdue attention to the kitchen was set in motion. As with all renovation work it will start with one and it builds over time with new ideas.



As you can see, we gave our kitchen a retro look with a meatsafe (managed to get a 50 year old from Kajang) and a retrofitted sewing machine as a water corner. Even the pot/pans hanger is a salvaged balinese door head and another piece of wood salvaged from and old rubber sheet smoking contraption.

Ok enough of the tour, lets get to business. 

To make this salsa we need one green mango, 6 - 7 ripened jackfruit, one large onion, 6 clove of garlic, 2 - 3 red chillies, all to be sliced thin.

Ingredient for the Salsa

Heat wok with coconut oil, and tranfer the garlic first, followed by the onions, and stir for about 2 minutes. Then transfer the sliced mango, stir well for another 2 minutes then add the sliced jackfruit and continue to stir for another 2 minutes. Finally top it of with the sliced chillies and continue to stir. Btw after more tha 20 years using an electric stove, we have returned to gas. It has a different feel though.

Onion and Garlic

Sliced Mango

Sliced Jackfruit

Sliced Chillies

And for the tempering, heat coconut oil and add mustard seed, urad dhall, and let it splutter. Then add 2 spoons (add more if you want it spicier) of chilly powder and stir well. For a rich flavour add 2 spoons of ghee and allow it to give a caramalised feel.

Coconut Oil, Mustard seeds and Urad Dhall

Caramalising the Chilly

Once the chilly tempering gives a nice body, transfer it to the wok and stir well, allowing the paste to blend well. Finally add salt for taste and stir well. Before removing salsa from the stove, take a spoon of palm sugar or jaggery add to the prep.

Blending the Chilly Paste with the Main Ingredient

Viola, there you have it Mango Jackfruit Slasa

The Finished Dish

The mango jackfruit salsa can be a good accompaniment with rice and Indian Breads. Also it can be a great filling for Tortilla too. 

So everyone, do try this simple to prepare dish and let me know.

Till the next recipe, adios amigos.

Cheers.


ravivarmmankkanniappan@1849180320243.0567° N, 101.5851° E