Mor Milagai

Description

Mor Milagai, also known as buttermilk chili or spiced buttermilk chili, is a popular South Indian snack made from green chilies that are soaked in spiced buttermilk and then sun-dried or air-dried until they become crispy. Here’s a detailed description:

Ingredients:

• Green Chilies: Long, slender green chilies, such as banana peppers or finger chilies, are typically used for making mor milagai.
• Buttermilk: Sour buttermilk or yogurt mixed with water is used to soak the green chilies. The acidity of the buttermilk helps in the fermentation process and adds flavor.
• Spices: Various spices and seasonings are added to the buttermilk mixture to impart flavor. Common spices include salt, turmeric powder, chili powder, asafoetida (hing), and fenugreek powder.

Preparation Method:

1. Preparation of Green Chilies: Wash the green chilies and slit them lengthwise, leaving them intact at the stem.
2. Soaking in Buttermilk: Place the slit green chilies in a bowl and cover them with spiced buttermilk. Ensure that the buttermilk mixture coats the chilies evenly.
3. Marination: Allow the green chilies to marinate in the spiced buttermilk for several hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chilies.
4. Drying: After marination, remove the green chilies from the buttermilk and spread them out on a clean, dry surface. Place them in direct sunlight or in a well-ventilated area to dry.
5. Sun-Drying or Air-Drying: The green chilies are left to dry for several days until they become completely dry and crispy. During this time, they may be turned occasionally to ensure even drying.
6. Storage: Once the green chilies are fully dried, they can be stored in an airtight container for future use.