Prepare yourself for a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the vibrant streets of India with this delectable recipe for Very Delicious Tamarind and Sesame Rice, also known as Imli Til Ke Chawal. Originating from the esteemed kitchens of Chef Sanjeev Kapoor, this dish has earned its place as a beloved favorite among food enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you’re seeking a satisfying lunch or a delightful snack, this recipe promises to deliver a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Gather your ingredients and set aside approximately 15 minutes for prep time and 30 minutes for cooking, ensuring a total time investment of around 1 hour and 15 minutes. With its simple yet enticing components, this dish caters to a variety of dietary preferences, including being low in protein, vegan-friendly, and low in cholesterol, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious individuals. Additionally, its ease of preparation and short cooking time make it perfect for busy weeknights or for those who are just starting their culinary journey.
To embark on this culinary adventure, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of basmati rice
- 4 cups of water
- 8 tablespoons of tamarind pulp
- 3 tablespoons of sesame seeds
- 1 onion
- 1/2 teaspoon of ginger paste
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic paste
- 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
- 1 tablespoon of oil
- 1/3 cup of fresh coriander leaves
- Salt to taste
Now that you have your ingredients assembled, let’s dive into the tantalizing process of creating this flavorful dish:
- Begin by soaking the basmati rice in water for approximately 15 minutes, allowing it to soften slightly.
- Once soaked, boil the rice in 4 1/2 cups of water until cooked through. Drain the excess water and set the rice aside.
- In a separate bowl, soak the tamarind pulp in warm water for about 30 minutes. Afterward, squeeze the pulp to extract its essence, then strain it to remove any residue.
- In a dry skillet, lightly roast the sesame seeds until they become fragrant and golden brown. Set them aside for later use.
- Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove the onions from the oil, allowing any excess oil to drain, and set them aside for garnishing.
- In the same oil, add the ginger paste and garlic paste, stirring continuously for about a minute until they become aromatic.
- Incorporate the turmeric powder and red chili powder into the mixture, continuing to stir-fry for another minute to release their flavors.
- Now, add the strained tamarind pulp to the wok and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season the mixture with salt according to your taste preferences, then add the cooked rice, ensuring it’s thoroughly coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Introduce the roasted sesame seeds into the wok, stirring them into the rice mixture for an additional 2 minutes to enhance their nutty essence.
- To elevate the dish further, add half of the chopped coriander leaves and the fried onions to the rice, gently folding them in to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Transfer the prepared rice to a serving dish, garnishing it with the remaining coriander leaves for a vibrant finishing touch.
- Serve the Very Delicious Tamarind and Sesame Rice immediately, ensuring it’s served hot to fully appreciate its aromatic flavors and enticing textures.
With its harmonious blend of tangy tamarind, nutty sesame seeds, and aromatic spices, this dish is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Whether enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with your favorite side dishes, this recipe promises to elevate your dining experience to new heights. So, gather your ingredients and let the culinary adventure begin!
