Vadapappu & Panakam-- Rama Navami

 Rama Navami or Sri Rama Navami is a Hindu festival to celebrate Lord Rama's Birthday. Rama Navami is one of the most important festivals of Hindus.  In south India this day is also celebrated as Wedding Anniversary of Lord Rama and Sita.  Sitarama Kalyanam , the ceremonial wedding ceremony of the divine couple is heal at temples throughout the south region.

On this occasion of Rama Navami, devotes prepare Vadapappu and Panakam as Naivedyam, which is offered to  Lord Rama. Vadapappu is the dish made with Yellow Moong Dal. And Panakam is sweet drink made with jaggery and pepper powder.

We need:

For Vadapappu:
Yellow moong dal 1 cup
Freshly grated coconut 4 spoons
Chopped cucumber 2 spoons(optional)
Finely chopped green chili 1/2 spoon
Pinch of salt

For Panakam:
Grated jaggery 1/2 cup
Water 1 1/2 cup
Black pepper powder 1/2 spoon
Dry ginger powder 1/4 spoon
Lime juice few drops
Salt 1/4 spoon

Method:


Vadapappu:
Wash and soak moong dal in water for 2 hours.
Drain water and add chopped chili, cucumber, salt and fresh coconut.
Mix well and serve.

Panakam:
In a mixing bowl add grated jaggery, salt, water, pepper powder and ginger powder.
Mix well and serve.