Tamil Nadu Samayal's - Nethili Karuvattu Kulambu

To make Nethili Karuvattu Kulambu, heat 2 tbsp oil in a pan and sauté 1 chopped onion until translucent. Add 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste and a slit green chili (if using), and cook until fragrant. Stir in 2 chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and oil separates. Mix in 1 tbsp red chili powder, 1 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp coriander powder, 1/2 tsp cumin powder, and salt, and cook for a couple of minutes. Add 1 cup soaked and drained dried anchovies and stir well. Incorporate 1/2 cup ground grated coconut and 1 tbsp tamarind paste or tamarind extract. Pour in 1-1.5 cups water, depending on the desired consistency, and let the curry simmer for 15-20 minutes until the anchovies are cooked and the flavors meld. Add a few curry leaves in the last few minutes of cooking. Serve hot with rice.