Dried Bird’s Eye Chilli Kanthari
Fiery Kanthari - Dried Bird's Eye Chilli
Meet Kerala's fiery gem, the Kanthari Mulaku. Don't let their tiny size fool you; these dried bird's eye chillies pack an explosive and sharp heat that is uniquely aromatic. Sun-dried to preserve their potency, they are essential for making traditional pickles, fiery chutneys, and for adding a powerful kick to any dish.
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The Fiery Soul of Kerala: Dried Kanthari Mulaku (Bird's Eye Chilli)
A Tiny Dynamite of Flavor and Fire
Deep in the lush green homesteads of Kerala grows a tiny, unassuming chilli that holds an almost legendary status in the region's cuisine. Known as Kanthari Mulaku, the Bird's Eye Chilli is the fiery soul of the traditional kitchen, a small but mighty powerhouse of heat and flavor. Swad Kerala brings you these potent gems, carefully hand-picked and sun-dried, preserving the authentic, explosive fire that is prized by chefs and home cooks alike.
A Heat and Flavor Unlike Any Other
Do not be deceived by its delicate size. The Kanthari is a force of nature, delivering a heat that is sharp, clean, and instantaneous. Unlike the slow, lingering burn of other chillies, the Kanthari’s fire is a quick and intense wave that awakens the palate. But it's not just about the heat; this unique chilli possesses a distinct, slightly fruity aroma and a sharp flavor profile that adds a delicious complexity to any dish it graces.
From Lush Gardens to Your Kitchen
Our Kanthari chillies are sourced from local farms and small-scale growers across Kerala, where they are often cultivated as a cherished backyard crop.
Traditionally Harvested: We select the finest chillies, which are then prepared using age-old methods.
Sun-Dried to Perfection: The chillies are naturally sun-dried, a slow process that perfectly preserves their fiery potency and unique flavor. This method concentrates their essence, ensuring a long shelf life and making their heat readily available for your culinary adventures all year round.
How to Unleash the Kanthari Fire
A little Kanthari goes a very long way. Whether used whole or crushed, it is incredibly versatile.
The Heart of Chutneys and Pickles: It is the star ingredient in the famous Kanthari Mulaku Chammanthi (a fiery chutney made with coconut and shallots) and is essential for authentic Kerala pickles (Uppilittathu).
Infuse with Fire: Drop a few whole dried chillies into a bottle of coconut oil or vinegar to create a fiery infusion perfect for drizzling over salads, fish, or grilled meats.
A Potent Seasoning: Crush or grind the dried chillies to make your own potent chilli flakes. A small pinch is enough to add a dramatic kick to curries, stir-fries, soups, and marinades.
Whole in Curries: Add a few whole chillies to slow-cooked curries or stews to let them release their heat and flavor gradually.
A Word of Caution: This is one of the spiciest chillies in the world. Please use it sparingly until you are familiar with its heat level.
By choosing Swad Kerala's Dried Kanthari Mulaku, you are embracing a truly authentic taste of Kerala's culinary heritage. Get ready to add a bold and unforgettable spark to your kitchen.