Introduction:
Tamarind Rice, also known as Puliyodarai or Pulihora, is
a traditional South Indian rice dish that tantalizes the taste buds with its
unique blend of tangy and spicy flavors. This mouthwatering dish is a favorite
among many for its simplicity and versatility. In this blog post, we will
explore the delightful world of Tamarind Rice, learn how to prepare it, its
nutritional content, and even answer some common questions about this
delightful culinary creation. Let's dive in!
Tamarind Rice Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw rice
- 2 cups water
- A small lemon-sized tamarind ball
- 2 tablespoons gingelly (sesame) oil or any cooking
oil
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- 2-3 dried red chilies
- 1 tablespoon chana dal (split chickpeas)
- 1 tablespoon urad dal (split black gram)
- 1/4 cup raw peanuts
- 10-12 curry leaves
- 2 tablespoons jaggery (optional, for a hint of
sweetness)
- Salt to taste
For the Spice Powder:
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- 1/2 tablespoon chana dal (split chickpeas)
- 1/2 tablespoon urad dal (split black gram)
- 3-4 dried red chilies
- 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
Instructions:
1.
Cook the
raw rice with water until it's fluffy and separate. Spread it on a plate and
let it cool.
2.
Soak the
tamarind in warm water for about 15 minutes. Extract the tamarind pulp and set
it aside.
3.
Dry roast
all the ingredients for the spice powder until they release a pleasant aroma.
Allow them to cool and then grind into a fine powder. Set aside.
4.
Heat oil in
a pan and add mustard seeds. Once they start spluttering, add cumin seeds,
fenugreek seeds, asafoetida, and dried red chilies.
5.
Add chana
dal, urad dal, and raw peanuts. Sauté until they turn golden brown.
6.
Now, add
the tamarind pulp and cook until the raw smell disappears and the mixture
thickens slightly.
7.
Mix in the
spice powder, jaggery (if using), and salt. Stir well to combine all the
flavors.
8.
Add the
cooked rice to the pan and mix thoroughly, ensuring the tamarind mixture coats
the rice evenly.
9.
Garnish
with fresh curry leaves and serve hot.
Tamarind Rice Calories (100g):
The approximate number of calories in Tamarind Rice per
100g is around 170-200 calories.
Tamarind Rice Andhra Style:
Andhra-style Tamarind Rice is known for its spicy and
tangy taste. The recipe may differ slightly from the traditional one, with
variations in the spice blend and tempering techniques. However, the essence of
the dish remains the same – a burst of flavors that delight the palate.
FAQs: Answering Your Queries
Q: Can I use tamarind paste instead of tamarind pulp?
A:
Yes, you can use tamarind paste as a substitute for tamarind pulp. However,
adjust the quantity according to the concentration of the paste.
Q: Is Tamarind Rice suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
A: Yes, Tamarind Rice is a vegetarian and vegan-friendly dish, and it's enjoyed
by people from all walks of life.
Q: Can I store Tamarind Rice for later consumption?
A:
Yes, you can store Tamarind Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator
for up to 2-3 days. Just reheat it before serving.
Conclusion:
Tamarind Rice is a delectable and tangy rice dish that brings together the rich flavors of tamarind, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice. Whether it's a special occasion or a simple meal at home, Tamarind Rice is a delightful addition to any dining experience. Now that you have the recipe, give it a try and relish the unique taste of Tamarind Rice. Happy cooking!