Ingredients

Shallots or pearl onions - one cup
large onions - 2
garlic cloves - 2
grated coconut - 1 cup
coriander seeds - 1 teaspoon
methi seeds - 1 teaspoon
tamarind extract - 1 tablespoon
chili powder - 1 tablespoon
turmeric powder - 1 teaspoon
oil - 2 teaspoons
salt to taste
curry leaves - a few

Method

Peel and chop the large onions fine. Heat one teaspoon of the oil in a frying pan and add 1/2 cup of the chopped onions. saute well and when browned, add the curry leaves, coriander seeds and methi seeds. Stir for a few more minutes and remove and keep aside. Wipe the pan and add the coconut. On a low heat, dry roast the coconut till brown (not burned).

When it is cool, blend the coconut with the onion mixture adding a half cup of water. Heat the remaining oil in a saucepan and add the mustard seeds. When they pop, add the curry leaves and remaining onions and shallots and stir till browned. Add the tamarind extract and 1/2 cup water and salt.

When it starts to simmer, add the blended paste and cook on a low fire for 20 - 30 minutes.

Source: Maya Nair