I was raised by a working mother, who either cooked the whole day's food in the morning, or gave instructions to the "cook" and went. But, when it was time for dinner, there was always a sizzle in the kitchen, and suddenly all of us would know, ITS TIME TO EAT!!
This sizzle is unique to homes in India and other South Asian cultures & is in fact, the most important part of the dish, known as Tempering of Spices or a Tadka. Who discovered Tadka & what was its purpose? Let's find out!
India & other South Asian lands have historically been full of rich spices which were used extensively for treating illnesses & voodoos. Gradually, they were used in cooking, especially for the royal families. The royals were always in search of newer & better cuisines & tastes & so, their cooks came up with newer techniques of using spices, leading to birth of Tadka!
A Tadka not only enhances the flavour of a dish, but also imparts a rich fragrance depending on its composition. This fragrance increases appetite & makes people salivate for the dish. Tadka also makes the dish look more presentable & appetizing.
A tadka has the power to turn a simple, boring, lifeless dish into something that is Delicious, Good-looking & Appetizing!!