Herbs, tomatos and chillis

                                                    Tomatos for rasam, dal, etc  
                                 

                                             Green chillis for dal, curries etc

                                     Fresh cumin leaves as a flavoring agent in curries

                                              Baby fenugreek used for methi parathas

                                              Cherry Tomatos for my salads

                                                  Cherry Tomatos
                                 
             

                                               Banana Peppers    


I have realised gardening is different from growing few plants. After trying for over 4 years, I managed to create a small patch of fertile ground in my backyard where I am growing few herbs, chillis and tomatos. I have two varieties of tomatos, cherry and regular ones. Banana peppers are supposed to be the hottest variety. I love spice in my food. therefore had to plant it. Thai chilli is another variety, again, a variety that packs the spicy punch in my veggies and curries. Indian food is incomplete without this variety. A definite yes and must have in my garden. Another chilli variety is a tiny bulb like dark green variety. Not sure of its name. I am not sure if it has that punch. I am yet to cook with this variety.
Gardening as an activity is immensely satisfying. I love it for two reasons, gives me a small chance to travel the organic route. I use methi leaves (fenugreek) for methi parathas. I have mint as well coriander/cilantro  too. I am using cumin leaves as a flavoring agent in my dals and rasams. It seems to be working for my family.
I do not have green thumbs, but I am encouraged to grow some cucumbers, squashes etc. But that plan is only possible next summer.

Ranga Rajah