What is Majjiga Mirapakayalu?
Majjiga Mirapakayalu (మజ్జిగ మిరపకాయలు) is a popular South Indian delicacy made from green chilies soaked in buttermilk and sun-dried until crisp. These dried chilies are then deep-fried before serving, adding a spicy, tangy, and crunchy flavor to simple meals like dal, curd rice, or rasam rice.
This traditional Andhra and Telangana dish is known for its unique texture and rich taste. The process of soaking in buttermilk gives it a distinct fermented sourness, balancing the heat of the chilies.
Majjiga Mirapakayalu in Different Languages
Telugu: మజ్జిగ మిరపకాయలు (Majjiga Mirapakayalu)
Tamil: மோர் மிளகாய் (Mor Milagai)
Kannada: ಮಜ್ಜಿಗೆ ಮೆಣಸಿನಕಾಯಿ (Majjige Menasinakayi)
Malayalam: മോര് മുളക് (Mor Mulak)
Hindi: छाछ मिर्ची (Chhaach Mirchi)
English: Buttermilk Dried Chilies
Health Benefits of Majjiga Mirapakayalu
Despite its spiciness, Majjiga Mirapakayalu has several health benefits:
Aids Digestion – Fermentation in buttermilk promotes gut-friendly probiotics, which help digestion.
Rich in Antioxidants – Chilies contain capsaicin, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
Enhances Appetite – The spicy, tangy taste stimulates the taste buds and boosts appetite.
Natural Preservative – The drying process extends shelf life without artificial preservatives.
Low-Calorie Flavor Booster – A small portion adds great taste without adding excess calories.
Boosts Metabolism – Capsaicin in chilies can help burn calories and improve metabolism.
Nutritional Value of Majjiga Mirapakayalu (Per 100g)
Calories: 220 kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 2g
Fiber: 4g
Vitamin C: 25mg
Calcium: 40mg
Iron: 1.5mg
Since it is fried before consumption, the calorie count increases, so it is best eaten in moderation.
How to Make Majjiga Mirapakayalu at Home
Ingredients:
Fresh green chilies – 500g
Thick buttermilk – 2 cups
Salt – 3 tbsp
Turmeric powder – 1 tsp
Preparation:
Slit the Chilies: Wash and dry the chilies. Make a small slit lengthwise without cutting them fully.
Soak in Buttermilk: In a large bowl, mix buttermilk, salt, and turmeric powder. Soak the chilies in this mixture for 3-4 days, stirring occasionally.
Sun-Dry the Chilies: Spread the soaked chilies on a cotton cloth or tray under direct sunlight for 4-5 days, until they become completely dry and crispy.
Store: Once dried, store them in an airtight container for long-term use.
Fry Before Serving: Deep-fry the dried chilies in hot oil until golden brown and serve as a crispy side dish.
How to Use Majjiga Mirapakayalu
With Curd Rice: The most classic combination, balancing spice with cool yogurt.
With Dal and Rice: A crunchy, spicy addition to everyday meals.
As a Snack: A light, crispy spicy treat with a meal.
In Chutneys: Crushed and mixed into powders or chutneys.
Where to Buy Majjiga Mirapakayalu Online
Want to try authentic homemade Majjiga Mirapakayalu? You can now order it online from Meenakshi Recipe for the best-quality traditional sun-dried and homemade pickles, podis, and dried chilies. Visit MeenakshiRecipe.com to bring home the taste of authentic Andhra flavors!
Conclusion
Majjiga Mirapakayalu is a traditional, flavorful, and healthy side dish that enhances any meal. Whether you make it at home or buy it online, it’s a must-try for lovers of spicy, fermented delicacies. Have you tried Majjiga Mirapakayalu before? Let us know how you like to enjoy it! 🌶️✨