ittam

Ittam is a traditional South Indian dish, originating from the state of Tamil Nadu. It is a savory snack made from fermented black lentils, which are ground into a paste and then deep-fried until crispy. The lentils used are typically black gram (urad dal) or black lentils (black gram), which are soaked overnight and then ground into a smooth paste. The paste is then mixed with spices such as asafoetida, turmeric, and red chili powder, and sometimes with chopped green chilies and curry leaves. The mixture is then formed into small balls or patties and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Ittam is often served as a snack or appetizer, and can be enjoyed with chutneys or sambar. It is a popular street food in Tamil Nadu and is also commonly found in South Indian restaurants around the world.