Ellu Sadam (Sesame Rice) Recipe
Ellu Sadam, also known as Sesame Rice, is a traditional South Indian dish that offers a delicious combination of aromatic basmati rice and the rich, nutty flavor of sesame seeds. This flavorful rice is tempered with spices and herbs, creating a wholesome and satisfying meal. Paired best with Mor Kuzhambu (a yogurt-based curry), Ellu Sadam is a perfect choice for a fulfilling lunch.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati Rice | 1-1/2 cups |
| Salt | As per taste |
| Sunflower Oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Sesame Seeds (Til seeds) | 50 grams |
| Dry Coconut (Kopra) | 50 grams |
| Dry Red Chillies | 6 pieces |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1 cup |
| Cashew Nuts | 4 tablespoons |
| Mustard Seeds | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Curry Leaves | 4 leaves |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 3/4 tablespoon |
Instructions
-
Roast the Sesame and Coconut: Begin by heating a pan on medium heat. First, roast the sesame seeds (til) until they are lightly browned. Once roasted, transfer them to a plate and set aside. In the same pan, dry roast the grated coconut until it becomes aromatic. Keep the roasted coconut aside as well.
-
-
Prepare the Spice Powder: Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the same heated pan. Next, dry roast the 4-5 dry red chillies until they slightly darken. Once done, allow the ingredients to cool completely. Once cooled, grind the sesame seeds, coconut, and red chillies into a coarse powder. This mixture will be the flavorful base for your rice.
-
Mix with Cooked Rice: Cook the basmati rice and allow it to cool slightly. Once cooled, add the prepared sesame-chili-coconut powder to the rice. Stir it well to ensure the rice is evenly coated with the mixture. Add salt according to your taste and mix well.
-
Seasoning the Rice: In a separate tadka (tempering) pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then, add the curry leaves, soaked urad dal, cashew nuts, dry red chillies, and asafoetida (hing). Allow this seasoning to fry until golden and fragrant.
-
Combine Everything: Once the seasoning is ready, pour it over the rice mixture and stir gently to combine all the ingredients. The result will be a fragrant, flavorful sesame rice dish.
-
Serve: Serve the Ellu Sadam warm for lunch, ideally paired with Mor Kuzhambu for a complete South Indian meal. This dish makes for a nutritious and delicious family lunch.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350-400 kcal |
| Protein | 7-8 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 45-50 grams |
| Fat | 15-18 grams |
| Fiber | 3-4 grams |
Tips for Perfect Ellu Sadam
- Ensure that the sesame seeds are roasted on low-medium heat to avoid burning them.
- You can adjust the spiciness by controlling the number of dry red chillies used in the powder.
- For extra crunch, you can add more cashew nuts or even peanuts while tempering.
- This recipe can be made vegan by substituting sunflower oil with coconut oil.
Conclusion
Ellu Sadam (Sesame Rice) is a wonderful South Indian delicacy that blends simple ingredients like rice, sesame, and coconut into a dish that bursts with flavor. Whether you’re preparing a lunch for your family or hosting a meal, this dish will surely satisfy your taste buds with its aromatic and savory goodness. Pair it with a side of Mor Kuzhambu for a fulfilling, balanced meal!
