Manathakkali vathal with salt - 100 gms

Product Description: Manathakkali Vathal with Salt (மணத்தக்காளி வத்தல்) refers to sun-dried black nightshade berries that have been prepared with salt. Tender Manathakkali berries are typically soaked in a salt solution and then spread out to dry under the Chennai sun. The salt acts as a preservative and helps to draw out moisture. The drying process shrinks the berries, intensifying their slightly bitter and earthy flavor.

Shelf Life and Storage: Properly dried Manathakkali Vathal with Salt has a good shelf life, generally lasting for six months to longer, if stored correctly. Given humid climate, it's crucial to ensure the berries are completely dry before storing them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from moisture. The added salt also aids in preservation.

Nutritional Values: Manathakkali (black nightshade) berries are known to be a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, calcium, phosphorus, and iron. They also contain antioxidants and have some medicinal properties. The drying process concentrates some of these nutrients. The addition of salt increases the sodium content.

Ideas for Dishes: Manathakkali Vathal is a popular ingredient in South Indian cuisine, particularly in Tamil Nadu. It is most commonly used in Manathakkali Vathal Kuzhambu, a flavorful and slightly bitter tamarind-based gravy that is considered beneficial for stomach ailments. The dried berries are typically tempered in oil at the beginning of the kuzhambu preparation. They can also be fried until crisp and eaten as a side dish with rice and curd.