Thakkali Sadam – Spicy Tomato Rice Recipe
A quick, flavorful, and satisfying South Indian dish, Thakkali Sadam, also known as Spicy Tomato Rice, is a beloved recipe that’s both aromatic and zesty. Packed with the tanginess of tomatoes and the warm, earthy spices of cardamom, turmeric, and sambar powder, this dish makes for the perfect meal for busy weekdays or a simple yet indulgent lunch or dinner. The addition of mint leaves brings a fresh, fragrant lift, while the mix of sesame oil and ghee adds richness and depth. Best served with cooling Boondi Raita and crunchy Kachumber Salad, Thakkali Sadam will transport you straight to the heart of South Indian kitchens.
Ingredients for Thakkali Sadam (Spicy Tomato Rice)
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | 1 cup |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 large |
| Ginger (finely chopped) | 1 inch |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 4 cloves |
| Tomatoes (finely chopped) | 3 medium |
| Carrots (grated) | 2 medium |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves (finely chopped) | 1 sprig |
| Sambar powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Cardamom powder (Elaichi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Mint leaves (Pudina) | 6 sprigs |
| Sesame oil (Gingelly oil) | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Calcium | 30 mg |
| Iron | 1.2 mg |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion size and specific ingredient brands.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Instructions for Making Thakkali Sadam (Spicy Tomato Rice)
-
Prep the Rice:
- Start by preparing the rice. If you’re using fresh rice, wash 1 cup of rice thoroughly under cold water. Place the washed rice in a pressure cooker with 2 cups of water.
- Pressure cook the rice for 2 whistles, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for an additional 3 minutes. Turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally. Set the cooked rice aside.
-
Prepare the Tomato Mixture:
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds and 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds. Let them splutter and crackle.
- Add 1 finely chopped onion, 1-inch piece of finely chopped ginger, and 4 cloves of finely chopped garlic. Sauté until the onions turn soft, tender, and golden brown.
- Add 3 finely chopped tomatoes and 2 grated carrots to the pan. Cook the mixture for a few minutes until the tomatoes break down and the carrots soften.
- Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and resembles a semi-thick paste. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
-
Add Spices and Herbs:
- Stir in 1 sprig of chopped curry leaves, 2 teaspoons of sambar powder, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon of cardamom powder, and salt to taste.
- Mix everything well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spices are well incorporated and fragrant.
- Add 6 sprigs of mint leaves and sauté for a few more minutes until the mint leaves have softened and infused the mixture with their flavor.
-
Combine with Rice:
- Gently add the cooked rice into the pan with the tomato-spice mixture. Use a spatula to carefully fold the rice into the mixture, ensuring that the rice is evenly coated with the tomato and spice blend.
- Be gentle while stirring to prevent the rice from breaking apart.
-
Final Touch:
- Once the rice and tomato mixture are well combined, add 1 tablespoon of ghee or more sesame oil to the rice. Stir through to give it a rich, aromatic finish.
-
Serve:
- Serve the Thakkali Sadam hot, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
- Pair with a refreshing Boondi Raita and a crunchy Kachumber Salad for a complete and balanced South Indian meal.
Serving Suggestions
Thakkali Sadam, with its bold, tangy flavors and rich spices, is a delicious one-pot dish that can be enjoyed on its own or with side dishes. The classic accompaniment to this rice dish includes:
- Boondi Raita: The creamy yogurt and crispy boondi provide a delightful contrast to the spiced rice.
- Kachumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad adds a light and crunchy texture to balance the richness of the rice.
This dish is perfect for lunch or dinner, whether it’s a busy weekday or a relaxed weekend meal. It’s easy to make, full of vibrant flavors, and sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Expert Tips
- Rice Tip: If you have leftover rice, this recipe is a great way to repurpose it. Just make sure to fluff the rice before adding it to the tomato mixture to avoid clumping.
- Spice Adjustments: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of sambar powder and cardamom powder. Alternatively, increase the spices for a more robust flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: For added fragrance, try garnishing the rice with fresh cilantro or more mint leaves just before serving.
- Oil Variations: Sesame oil imparts a nutty, rich flavor typical in South Indian cuisine, but you can substitute it with vegetable oil if needed.
Conclusion
Thakkali Sadam is a delightful South Indian recipe that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the bold spices and aromatic herbs that are characteristic of South Indian cuisine. It’s simple to prepare, bursting with flavor, and provides a satisfying meal in just under an hour. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick weekday lunch or a casual family dinner, this spicy tomato rice will certainly hit the spot!
