Summer Specials: Cool Recipes with Our Podis

Summer in South India means soaring temperatures, but also some of the most refreshing and flavorful dishes. Our podis and chutneys aren't just for dosas and idlis—they can transform simple ingredients into cool, satisfying summer meals. Here are our favorite summer recipes using House of Kumaran products.

1. Podi Rice Bowl with Cucumber Raita: This is the ultimate summer lunch—quick, cooling, and packed with flavor. Cook your rice and let it cool slightly. Mix in 2 tablespoons of our Idli Podi with a generous drizzle of sesame oil. Top with cool cucumber raita and a handful of fresh curry leaves fried until crispy. The combination of warm, spiced rice with cold raita is pure summer comfort.

2. Buttermilk with Curry Leaves Podi: South India's answer to the summer heat is neer mor (spiced buttermilk). Add a teaspoon of our Curry Leaves Podi to a glass of fresh buttermilk. The subtle spice of the podi, combined with the cooling buttermilk, creates a refreshing drink that aids digestion and keeps you hydrated.

3. Curd Rice with Garlic Podi: Thayir Sadam (curd rice) is the ultimate South Indian comfort food, especially in summer. Make it special by topping with a sprinkle of our Garlic Podi. The gentle heat of the podi cuts through the cool, creamy curd rice perfectly. Add some pomegranate seeds for a burst of sweetness.

4. Raw Mango Pickle Rice: When summer brings an abundance of raw mangoes, this dish becomes a weekly staple. Mix cooled rice with a tablespoon of our Raw Mango Pickle and a little pickle oil. The tangy, spicy pickle transforms plain rice into something extraordinary. Add roasted peanuts for crunch.

5. Podi Salad Dressing: Yes, podi makes an excellent salad dressing! Mix 2 tablespoons of our Peanut Podi with lime juice, a little honey, and sesame oil. Drizzle over a salad of cucumber, tomatoes, and onions. It's a South Indian twist on a summer salad that's both refreshing and filling.

6. Watermelon with Chili Podi: This might sound unusual, but trust us—it's a revelation. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of our Guntur Chili Podi on fresh watermelon cubes. The heat enhances the sweetness of the watermelon. Add a squeeze of lime and a pinch of salt for the perfect summer snack.

7. Cold Noodles with Podi: Give instant noodles a summer makeover. Cook noodles, rinse with cold water, and toss with sesame oil, soy sauce, and a tablespoon of our Sesame Podi. Add julienned cucumber and carrots. Serve cold for a fusion dish that beats the heat.

Summer cooking should be simple and satisfying. These recipes require minimal cooking—perfect for days when you don't want to spend hours in a hot kitchen. Our podis and pickles do the heavy lifting, adding complex flavors without the effort.

Share your summer podi recipes with us on Instagram @houseofkumaran. We love seeing how our community gets creative with our products!