Uppu Mirapakaya, also known as Salted Chillies or Sun-Dried Green Chillies, is a traditional South Indian condiment that brings fiery heat and tangy flavor to any simple meal. Often served with curd rice or dal rice, these salted chillies are a must-have in many South Indian homes – especially in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.
🌶 What is Uppu Mirapakaya?
Uppu means salt and Mirapakaya means chilli in Telugu. Uppu Mirapakaya is made by soaking fresh green chillies in a salt-buttermilk mixture and drying them under the sun for several days. The result is a crispy, spicy dried chilli that is later deep-fried before serving.
When fried, it turns golden brown and becomes crunchy, making it a perfect side dish or topping.
🍴 How is Uppu Mirapakaya Made?
Ingredients:
Green chillies (long variety)
Salt
Sour buttermilk
Preparation Process:
Slit the chillies and soak them in salt water or buttermilk for 1–2 days.
Spread them out in the sun to dry for about a week.
Store in an airtight container.
Fry when needed and enjoy with hot rice and ghee!
This process not only preserves the chillies but also enhances their flavor.
🥗 Nutritional Value
While Uppu Mirapakaya is not consumed in large quantities, it does add value in terms of taste and spice:
Low in calories (per serving)
Contains capsaicin, which may help with digestion and metabolism
Acts as a natural appetite enhancer
Fermented buttermilk base may add probiotic benefits
🌟 Health Benefits of Uppu Mirapakaya
Improves Digestion: The spice stimulates digestive juices.
Appetite Booster: The pungent flavor increases appetite, especially when recovering from illness.
Natural Preservative: Salt and sun-drying prevent spoilage without chemicals.
⚠️ Note: It’s best to enjoy them in moderation due to high salt content.
🍽 How to Use Uppu Mirapakaya
Fry and crush it over curd rice.
Serve it as a side with dal and ghee rice.
Mix with podi (spice powder) and hot rice.
Pair with upma or pongal for an extra spicy twist.
🛒 Uppu Mirapakaya Online
You can now buy homemade or branded Uppu Mirapakaya online through:
Amazon
Flipkart
Local Indian spice stores
Homemade pickle websites like MeenakshiRecipe.com
Price ranges from ₹120 to ₹200 for 100g based on quality and packaging.
🌍 Uppu Mirapakaya in Other Languages
Telugu: ఉప్పు మిరపకాయ
Tamil: உப்பு மிளகாய்
Kannada: ಉಪ್ಪು ಮೆಣಸಿನಕಾಯಿ
Hindi: नमकीन मिर्च
English: Salted & Sun-Dried Green Chillies
🤔 FAQ: Uppu Mirapakaya
Q: Is Uppu Mirapakaya spicy?
A: Yes, it’s quite spicy and best enjoyed in small quantities.
Q: Can I store it long-term?
A: Yes, when stored in an airtight container, it lasts for months.
Q: Is it healthy?
A: In moderation, yes. But those watching sodium intake should limit it.
Q: Can I make it at home?
A: Absolutely! It’s simple, natural, and requires only sun and time.
💬 Final Thoughts
Uppu Mirapakaya is more than a fiery bite – it’s a piece of tradition passed down through generations. Whether you’re mixing it with rice or just enjoying it with curd, this humble chilli brings bold flavor and nostalgia to every South Indian meal.