Andhra Style Pulihora (Spicy & Tangy Tamarind Rice)
Introduction:
Pulihora is a beloved and authentic Andhra dish, bringing together a delightful medley of spicy, tangy, sweet, and salty flavors that awaken the taste buds with every bite. The name ‘Pulihora’ is derived from two Telugu words: ‘puli,’ meaning sourness (derived from ‘pulupu’), and ‘hora,’ which translates to food or meals (from ‘origamu’). This traditional rice dish is typically prepared with tamarind, although it can also include lemon or mango for added tanginess, depending on regional preferences. Known as the “poor man’s festival food,” Pulihora is often enjoyed during festivals, picnics, or long journeys due to its robust flavor and ability to stay fresh for long periods. This Andhra-style rice is a perfect combination of salty, hot, sour, and spicy tastes, making it an appetizing choice for any meal.
Cuisine: Andhra
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked rice | 2 cups |
| Tamarind water | 1/2 cup |
| Jaggery | 1 tablespoon |
| Raw peanuts (Moongphali) | 1/4 cup (roasted with skin) |
| Salt | To taste |
| For Pulihora Masala (Seasoning): | |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Chana dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1 tablespoon |
| Dry red chillies | 2 |
| Green chillies | 2-3 (deseeded and slit lengthwise) |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Sesame (gingelly) oil | For cooking |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Instructions:
-
Prep the Rice:
Begin by preparing the rice. It’s best to use day-old, cooked rice, as the grains are more separated, which helps in achieving the perfect texture for Pulihora. -
Prepare the Seasoning:
Heat a generous amount of sesame oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, dry red chillies, green chillies, and curry leaves. Sauté until the mustard seeds begin to crackle and the chillies are roasted, releasing their wonderful fragrance. -
Add Tamarind and Other Ingredients:
To the seasoned oil, add the turmeric powder, asafoetida (hing), jaggery, tamarind water, and salt. Let this mixture cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The aim is to cook the tamarind pulp so that its raw flavor disappears and the consistency thickens, absorbing the spices and flavors. -
Combine with Rice:
Once the tamarind mixture has thickened, add the cooked rice and roasted peanuts. Stir everything well to ensure the rice is evenly coated with the tangy, flavorful tamarind paste. -
Allow the Flavors to Absorb:
Cover the pan and let the rice sit for a few minutes, allowing it to absorb all the delightful flavors from the tamarind masala. This step enhances the richness of the dish. -
Final Touch:
After the rice has absorbed the flavors, taste and adjust the seasoning. You may need to add more salt or tamarind depending on your preference. For an added layer of richness, drizzle a little more sesame oil on top and stir it in. -
Serve:
Once everything is well mixed and seasoned, transfer the Andhra Style Pulihora to a serving bowl. It pairs wonderfully with Elai Vadam (crispy papad), or you can enjoy it with a refreshing glass of chaas (buttermilk) for a more traditional touch.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Andhra Style Pulihora as a standalone dish for lunch, or pack it in your lunch box for an easy, flavorful meal on the go.
- Pair with a side of yogurt or buttermilk (chaas) to balance the spiciness and tanginess.
- This dish can also be served during festive occasions, picnics, or long-distance travels as it stays fresh and delicious for extended periods.
Conclusion:
This Andhra Style Pulihora is a true celebration of flavors—spicy, tangy, sweet, and savory—all in one bowl. Whether you’re seeking comfort food or a dish to take on a journey, Pulihora delivers on taste and tradition. With simple ingredients like tamarind, jaggery, peanuts, and aromatic spices, this recipe offers a vibrant burst of flavors that will surely become a family favorite. Give it a try, and experience the bold tastes of Andhra Pradesh right in your own kitchen!
