Telugu-style Tomato Pachadi Panzanella

Ingredients

In the Telugu-style Tomato Pachadi Panzanella, we replace the traditional Italian dressing with Andhra tomato pachadi, a spicy and tangy tomato chutney. This adds a unique flavor profile to the dish, infusing it with the bold and fiery taste of Telugu cuisine. Additionally, we incorporate Telugu spices and vegetables to enhance the dish's authenticity and adapt it to the Telugu palate. We alse have the original recipe for Panzanella, so you can check it out.

• 4 cups (400g) crusty bread, cut into cubes 4 cups (400g) crusty bread, cut into cubes
• 2 cups (500g) ripe tomatoes, diced 2 cups (500g) ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup (150g) cucumber, diced 1 cup (150g) cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup (75g) red onion, thinly sliced 1/2 cup (75g) red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup (30g) fresh coriander leaves, chopped 1/4 cup (30g) fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped 2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 tablespoon oil 1 tablespoon oil
• Salt to taste Salt to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 8g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add turmeric powder and red chili powder. Stir for a few seconds.
2. 2.
   Add diced tomatoes, green chilies, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
3. 3.
   Remove from heat and let the tomato mixture cool.
4. 4.
   In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, cucumber, red onion, and fresh coriander leaves.
5. 5.
   Pour the cooled tomato mixture over the bread and vegetables. Toss gently to coat the bread evenly.
6. 6.
   Allow the mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up the flavors.
7. 7.
   Serve the Telugu-style Tomato Pachadi Panzanella immediately, garnished with additional coriander leaves if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bread — Choose a crusty bread with a dense texture, such as sourdough or ciabatta, to ensure it holds up well when soaked in the tomato pachadi.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of green chilies or remove the seeds before chopping.
• For added crunch, you can toast the bread cubes in the oven for a few minutes before tossing them with the tomato pachadi.

Serving advice

Serve the Telugu-style Tomato Pachadi Panzanella as a refreshing appetizer or a light lunch. It pairs well with a side of yogurt or raita.

Presentation advice

Arrange the colorful salad on a platter, garnishing it with a sprinkle of fresh coriander leaves. The vibrant red tomatoes, green chilies, and golden bread cubes will create an eye-catching display.