Aunas Ambo Sasam

Aunas Ambo Sasam Recipe - Traditional Indian Pineapple and Coconut Dish

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Aunas Ambo Sasam is a delightful and refreshing fruit-based dish that hails from the coastal regions of India, particularly from the Konkan belt which spans across Maharashtra, Goa, and parts of Karnataka. This dish is a beautiful amalgamation of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, making it a unique addition to any meal. It primarily features grapes as its main ingredient, which are mixed with a specially prepared paste of coconut, red chillies, and mustard seeds, offering a burst of flavors that tantalize the taste buds.

History

The recipe for Aunas Ambo Sasam has its roots deeply embedded in the traditional culinary practices of the Konkan region. It is believed to have been a part of the local cuisine for centuries, passed down through generations. The dish reflects the coastal community's ingenious way of incorporating the abundant local produce, like coconuts and a variety of spices, into their diet. Over time, it has evolved, with each household adding its own touch to the recipe, yet the essence of Aunas Ambo Sasam remains unchanged.

Ingredients

4 cups mixed fruits, chopped (pineapple, mango, apple, and green or black grapes, depending on availability)
4 tbsp grated coconut
2 dry red chillies
1 tsp mustard seeds
2 tbsp sugar, or as per taste
salt to taste

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine the sugar with the chopped fruits and set aside.
Using a blender, grind the coconut with the red chilli(es) and a small amount of water.
Once nearly finished, add the mustard seeds to the blender.
Continue grinding for a few more seconds until the mustard seeds are crushed.
Add the coconut paste to the fruits, along with salt, and mix thoroughly.

Variations

1. You can add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) to the coconut paste for an additional layer of flavor.
2. Substitute grapes with diced mango or pineapple for a tropical twist.
3. For a spicier version, increase the number of red chillies.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

1. For the best flavor, use a mix of different types of grapes, including both sweet and tart varieties.

2. Grinding the coconut, chillies, and mustard seeds to a fine paste is crucial for achieving the right texture and flavor.

3. Adjust the quantity of sugar based on the sweetness of the grapes and your personal preference.

4. Let the dish sit for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Aunas Ambo Sasam can be served as a side dish with a main course or enjoyed as a refreshing dessert after a meal. It pairs wonderfully with traditional Indian meals, especially those featuring rice and curry.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in preparing Aunas Ambo Sasam lies in grinding the coconut, chillies, and mustard seeds to the right consistency. A smooth paste ensures that the flavors are well blended and evenly distributed throughout the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

1. If fresh coconut is not available, desiccated coconut can be used as a substitute, though fresh is preferred for the best flavor.

2. Mustard powder can replace mustard seeds in a pinch.

3. Honey or jaggery can be used instead of sugar for a different sweetness profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Aunas Ambo Sasam can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, letting it sit for a few hours enhances the flavors. It's best consumed within 24-48 hours.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Aunas Ambo Sasam in a beautiful bowl, garnished with a few whole grapes and a sprinkle of grated coconut on top for an appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with spicy Indian curries and rice dishes, as the sweetness and tanginess of the Sasam can balance the heat of the main course. It also goes well with flatbreads like chapatis or naans.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Aunas Ambo Sasam is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Aunas Ambo Sasam contains approximately 150-200 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie addition to meals. The exact count depends on the types of grapes used and the amount of sugar added.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Aunas Ambo Sasam is a good source of carbohydrates, primarily from the grapes and sugar. Grapes are rich in natural sugars and dietary fiber, which provide quick energy and help in maintaining a healthy digestive system.

Fats

The fats in Aunas Ambo Sasam come mainly from the grated coconut. Coconut contains saturated fats, which should be consumed in moderation. However, it also offers medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are metabolized differently and can have health benefits.

Proteins

This dish is not a significant source of proteins. However, the small amount present comes from the coconut and mustard seeds. For a balanced meal, consider pairing it with a protein-rich dish.

Vitamins and minerals

Grapes are a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as several essential minerals, including potassium. The coconut adds some iron, magnesium, and zinc. Together, these nutrients support overall health, including immune function and bone health.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens like gluten, nuts, and dairy. However, those with a sensitivity to mustard should exercise caution.

Summary

Aunas Ambo Sasam is a nutritious dish that offers a good balance of carbohydrates and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in calories and fats, making it a healthy choice for those monitoring their intake.

Summary

Aunas Ambo Sasam is a delightful, nutritious, and versatile dish that brings a touch of the Konkan coast to your table. Its unique blend of flavors makes it a memorable addition to any meal, whether as a side dish or a dessert. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's a wonderful way to incorporate the goodness of grapes and coconut into your diet.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately captivated. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my friend Auna's house for a picnic. Auna was a talented cook and always had the most delicious dishes on the table. As we sat down to eat, I couldn't help but ask her about the fragrant and spicy dish that was sitting in front of me.

Auna smiled and told me that it was called Aunas Ambo Sasam, a traditional dish from her hometown in India. She explained that it was a family recipe that had been passed down through generations and she was happy to share it with me. I was thrilled at the thought of learning how to make such a unique and flavorful dish.

As we finished our meal, I asked Auna if she would teach me how to make Aunas Ambo Sasam. She happily agreed and we spent the rest of the afternoon in her kitchen, chopping, grinding, and simmering the ingredients together. The aroma that filled the air was intoxicating and I knew that this dish would become a favorite in my own home.

Auna patiently guided me through each step of the recipe, sharing stories of her childhood and the times she had cooked this dish with her own grandmother. She told me about the importance of using fresh ingredients and taking the time to let the flavors meld together. I listened intently, soaking up every bit of knowledge that she shared with me.

After a few hours of cooking, the Aunas Ambo Sasam was finally ready. The spicy, tangy flavors danced on my tongue as I took my first bite. It was a symphony of tastes and textures, unlike anything I had ever experienced before. Auna beamed with pride as she watched me savor each mouthful, knowing that her family recipe had found a new home in my kitchen.

From that day on, Aunas Ambo Sasam became a staple in my family's meal rotation. I would often make it for special occasions or when I wanted to treat my loved ones to a taste of something exotic and delicious. Every time I cooked it, I would think of Auna and the wonderful memories we had shared in her kitchen that sunny afternoon.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. But the essence of the dish remains the same - a celebration of tradition, family, and the joy of sharing good food with those we love. I am grateful to Auna for introducing me to this wonderful recipe and for inspiring me to continue exploring the world of flavors and cuisines.

As I sit down to enjoy a steaming bowl of Aunas Ambo Sasam, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. I will always treasure the day I learned how to make this dish and the friendship that blossomed from our shared love of cooking. And who knows, maybe one day I will pass on this recipe to my own grandchildren, just as Auna did for me.