Green Cardamom Pods
Enclose pungent, black seeds with a scent reminiscent of
camphor, eucalyptus, orange, and lemon peel. Sold as
whole pods, seeds or ground to a powder. Store the pods
in a tightly sealed jar to preserve their aroma.
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Lentil
a high-protein pulse which is dried and then soaked and
cooked prior to eating.
The
plant which yields this pulse, native to the
Mediterranean and Africa and grown also for fodder.There
are several varieties of lentils, including green ones
and smaller orange ones, which are typically sold split.
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Lime Leaves
Used in soups and curries of Malay or Nonya Origin. They
are also thinly sliced and used as a garnish.
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Kangkung
A highly nutritious vegetable also known as water
spinach. Young shoots are served as part of a mixed
platter of raw vegetables for dipping in hot sauces,
while the leaves and tender tips are often stir-fried
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Lemongrass
A highly aromatic herb. The tough outer layers of the
stem should be peeled away and only the pale, low
portions are used.
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Malt Vinegar
Made from malted barley, has a pungent, lemony flavour
ideal for pickling and marinades. Sold in bottles in
supermarkets.
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Mango Chutney
An exotic mix of mangoes, ginger, chillies, and lemon
juice. It is sold in bottles in Indian food stores.
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Masala
any of a number of spice mixtures ground into a paste or
powder for use in Indian cookery.
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Mustard Seeds
Small brownish-black seeds that are common in South
Indian cooking, imparting a nutty flavour to dishes.
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Nutmeg
The seed of the nutmeg tree, covered with a lacy
membrane called mace. Buy whole nutmeg and grate only
when needed as ground nutmeg looses its flavour quickly.
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Palm Sugar
A cylindrical block of sugar made from the sap of
coconut palms or arenga palms. It ranges in
colour from gold to light brown with a faint caramel
taste. Substitute brown sugar or maple syrup.
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Pandanus Leaves
Fragrant long, thin leaves also called screwpine leaves.
They are usually tied in a knot when boiled to release
their flavour. Use pandanus essence in desserts if the
leaves are unavailable.
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