Tomato Varta

And then there are times when we look for accompaniments to spice up everyday food. And then again we do not want to spend a lot of time or energy or efforts to make such condiments. This recipe fits the bill in all the above aspects – it shall add some zest to everyday meal, and is very easy to make. You may also make it in a little larger quantity and store in an airtight closed lid glass container in the refrigerator. But since this would naturally be free of any kind of preservatives, it is best to consume within two weeks or so. Remember, always store tangy items in glass containers – avoid plastic or metal containers to store the same.

Ingredients:
• Tomatoes
• Garlic (pounded)
• Onion (chopped)
• Green chillies (chopped)
• Turmeric powder
• Chilli powder
• Coriander powder
• Coriander leaves (chopped)
• Salt
• Sugar
• Oil

Preparation:
• Dip the tomatoes in hot water followed by cold water and peel skin off
• Boil and mash into pulp
• Heat oil and add the garlic first
• Next add onions and fry
• Now add green chillies and all powdered spices
• Fry the masala well and then add the tomato pulp
• Add salt and sugar
• When everything is nicely fried, put chopped coriander on top and serve

Tip (courtesy- Sanjeev Kapoor): To peel tomatoes easily, make a cross sign on top of the tomato with a knife and dip them in very hot water, and then immediately in cold water. This will make it easy to peel the skin off if you pull from the cross slit.