Chettinad Thakkali Sadam Recipe (Chettinad Style Tomato Rice)
A Flavor-Packed Traditional Tamil Nadu Delight
Chettinad cuisine is well known for its rich and aromatic dishes, and Chettinad Thakkali Sadam is no exception. This Chettinad-style tomato rice is infused with a burst of flavors from spices, herbs, and ripe tomatoes, making it an irresistible meal option for lunch, dinner, or even as a quick lunchbox recipe. The perfect balance of tangy tomatoes, fresh mint, and coriander leaves with a hint of fennel and cinnamon brings a signature touch that you won’t want to miss. Let’s dive into this gluten-free recipe that is simple yet bursting with the heart and soul of Chettinad.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice (cooked) | 2 cups |
| Tomatoes (finely chopped) | 2 |
| Onion (thinly sliced) | 1 |
| Red Chili Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Green Chili (slit) | 1 |
| Mint Leaves (Pudina) | A fistful |
| Coriander (Cilantro) Leaves | A small bunch |
| Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini) | 1 |
| Cloves (Laung) | 2 |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
| Ghee (Clarified Butter) | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Ginger (roughly chopped) | 1 inch |
| Garlic Cloves | 3 to 4 |
| Fennel Seeds (Saunf) | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 54 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Vitamin C | 20 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
Preparation Time & Cooking Time
| Preparation Time | 5 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cooking Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 20 minutes |
| Servings | 2 servings |
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Cook the Rice:
- Begin by cooking the rice. You can use any variety of rice, though basmati or sona masoori works best for this recipe. Ensure the rice is fluffy and not overcooked. Once done, set the cooked rice aside to cool slightly.
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Prepare the Spice Mix:
- Using a mortar and pestle, coarsely pound the ginger, garlic, and fennel seeds. The aroma of freshly pounded spices adds a more robust flavor compared to powdered alternatives. Set this mixture aside for later use.
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Heat the Ghee:
- In a deep pan or kadai, heat a tablespoon of ghee over medium heat. Once the ghee is hot, add the cinnamon stick and cloves, allowing them to splutter. These whole spices will release their aroma into the oil, providing a rich, warm undertone to the dish.
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Saute the Aromatics:
- Now, add the pounded ginger, garlic, and fennel seeds into the pan and sauté until the raw smell dissipates. This should take around 2 minutes. Keep stirring to prevent burning.
- Add the curry leaves next, followed by the sliced onions. Sauté the onions until they turn translucent and soft, allowing them to caramelize lightly, which will add sweetness to balance the dish.
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Add the Tomatoes:
- Toss in the finely chopped tomatoes and continue to sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until they are half-cooked. The tomatoes should soften but still retain a slight bite.
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Spice it Up:
- Once the tomatoes are halfway cooked, add the slit green chili, red chili powder, and both the mint and coriander leaves. Stir well to combine the flavors. Season the mix with salt as per your taste. Let this simmer until the tomatoes are completely cooked and the whole mixture comes together as a cohesive, fragrant base.
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Mix in the Rice:
- Now, gently fold the cooked rice into the tomato mixture using a fork. Ensure that the rice is evenly coated with the tomato masala, but be gentle to prevent breaking the rice grains. Reduce the heat to low and let the rice simmer with the masala for about 5 minutes.
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Final Touches:
- Once the rice has absorbed the flavors and the dish is ready, switch off the heat. Let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Chettinad Thakkali Sadam pairs wonderfully with a side of Cauliflower & Cucumber Raita or any yogurt-based salad. You can also serve it with some crispy papad or a light vegetable curry for a complete, satisfying meal. This rice dish is versatile enough to be packed in lunchboxes or served as a quick weekday lunch.
Chef’s Tips for a Perfect Chettinad Thakkali Sadam
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Rice Texture: The rice should be cooked until fluffy but not mushy. If the rice is overcooked, the dish may turn too sticky. Cook the rice with a little less water than usual to maintain the grainy texture.
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Ghee: Using ghee instead of regular oil adds richness and elevates the flavor profile of the dish. However, you can substitute with oil if you prefer a vegan version.
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Spice Adjustments: If you prefer a milder heat level, you can reduce the amount of red chili powder or remove the green chili entirely. Conversely, for more spice, feel free to add more green chilies or use a spicier variety of red chili powder.
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Fresh Herbs: The combination of mint and coriander leaves is what sets this dish apart from regular tomato rice recipes. Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chettinad Thakkali Sadam is not only a quick and easy recipe to prepare, but it also offers a burst of flavors with every bite. The tanginess from the tomatoes, the warm spice from cinnamon and cloves, and the fresh herbs come together beautifully to create a wholesome dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a weekday meal or something to pack for lunch, this tomato rice recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen.
This flavorful Chettinad Takkali Sadam Recipe is an excellent addition to your repertoire of traditional South Indian dishes. It is best enjoyed when paired with a cooling raita or vegetable curry, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The use of fresh ingredients, aromatic spices, and the simplicity of preparation make it a must-try for anyone who loves Indian cuisine!
