Mangai vettal (sun dried mango)

Ingredients:

• Large mangoes - 4 (preferably the "omelette" mango variety)
• Salt - 1 cup for every 4 cups of cut mango pieces

Method:

• Wash and cut the mangoes into 1" thick pieces.
• Measure the mango pieces using a cup and add 1 cup salt for every 4 cups of cut mangoes.
• Stir and keep aside for 2 days stirring occasionally.
• After two days, dry the mango pieces on a plastic sheet in the hot sun.
• The mango pieces will take about 4 - 5 days to dry completely.
• Cool and store in air tight container.
• This can be used instead of tamarind in many recipes.