Molagai Podi (literally "chilli powder" in Tamil) is a coarse mixture of ground dry spices that typically contains dried chillies, lentils and sesame seeds. Tamils traditionally use milagai podi as a condiment on idlis, dosas and other South Indian dishes. The intensity of this condiment's spiciness can range from almost no spice at all to extremely spicy. In this second scenario, some like to sprinkle a layer of sugar on top of the mixture after the oil is poured on the powder. This innovative idea creates a barrage of flavors once inside the mouth, everything from spicy and salty to sweet. Also parents use this method for satisfying children who crave this 'podi' but can not handle the intense flavor. Usually considered a convenient substitute to chutneys, it is usually available in most households in Tamil Nadu. Molagai podi is not consumed dry, rather it is mixed with sesame oil or sometimes ghee.
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