Kongunadu Style Arisi Paruppu Sadam: A Tamil Nadu Delight
Kongunadu Style Arisi Paruppu Sadam is a comforting South Indian rice and lentil dish that reflects the culinary traditions of Tamil Nadu. A staple in many Tamil households, this dish combines the goodness of rice, split toor dal (Arhar dal), aromatic spices, and a blend of fragrant herbs. It is a versatile, nutritious one-pot meal that’s both filling and flavorful, making it perfect for lunch or dinner.
With its earthy flavors and a touch of heat, this rice dish is ideal when paired with spicy curries or vegetable side dishes. The slight tang from tomatoes and the warmth from spices like coriander powder, red chili powder, and sambar powder make it irresistible. Whether you’re craving something hearty or seeking an authentic taste of Tamil Nadu, Kongunadu Style Arisi Paruppu Sadam won’t disappoint.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | 1 cup |
| Arhar Dal (Split Toor Dal) | 1 cup |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Fennel Seeds (Saunf) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
| Dry Red Chilli | 2 |
| Onion (Chopped) | 1 |
| Tomato (Chopped) | 1 |
| Garlic (Pounded) | 4 cloves |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Sambar Powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower Oil or Ghee | As needed |
| Coriander Leaves (Chopped) | 2 sprigs |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 250 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Protein | 9g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 30 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 60 minutes |
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Tamil Nadu
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Wash the Rice and Dal
Begin by washing the rice and split toor dal (Arhar dal) together in water. Allow the dal to soak for at least 30 minutes to ensure it cooks properly and evenly. -
Prepare the Tempering
Heat a pressure cooker on medium flame and add a tablespoon of ghee or sunflower oil. Once the oil is heated, add cumin seeds (jeera) and fennel seeds (saunf). Let them sizzle and release their aroma for a few seconds. -
Add the Curry Leaves and Red Chilli
Next, add the curry leaves, letting them crackle in the hot oil for a few seconds. Add the dry red chillies and sauté them along with the curry leaves. This will enhance the dish’s flavor profile. -
Sauté Garlic and Onion
Add the pounded garlic and sauté until it becomes aromatic and softens. Then, add the chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent, stirring occasionally. -
Cook the Tomatoes
Once the onions are caramelized, add the chopped tomatoes. Sprinkle a little salt over them and cook until the tomatoes turn soft and mushy, blending into the mix. -
Add the Spice Powders
Add coriander powder (dhania), red chili powder, turmeric powder (haldi), and sambar powder. Stir the mixture well to combine the spices and release their flavors into the oil. -
Add the Rice and Dal
Drain the soaked rice and dal, then add them to the cooker. Mix well, ensuring that the rice and dal are evenly coated with the spiced oil and masala. -
Pressure Cook
Add about 5 cups of water to the cooker and adjust salt to taste. Close the pressure cooker lid and cook on high heat for about 3 whistles. After the cooking time, let the pressure release naturally before opening the lid. -
Final Touches
Once the pressure has released, open the cooker and gently mix the rice and dal. The grains should be soft and infused with the flavors of the spices. -
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves (dhania) on top of the cooked rice for a burst of freshness. Serve the Kongunadu Style Arisi Paruppu Sadam hot with side dishes such as Pavakkai Poriyal (bitter gourd stir-fry) or Puli Kuzhambu (tamarind curry) for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Kongunadu Style Arisi Paruppu Sadam is a hearty and filling dish that can be enjoyed on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. The most popular accompaniments are:
- Pavakkai Poriyal (Bitter Gourd Stir-Fry): A slightly bitter stir-fried vegetable dish with aromatic spices that balances the flavors of the rice.
- Puli Kuzhambu (Tamarind Curry): A tangy and spicy curry made with tamarind, which complements the rice beautifully.
For those looking to make it a complete meal, you can also serve a simple cucumber raita or a bowl of spicy buttermilk alongside.
Kongunadu Style Arisi Paruppu Sadam is a dish that encapsulates the essence of Tamil cuisine: comforting, spicy, and full of flavors. It’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare, packed with protein, and sure to satisfy everyone at the table. The combination of rice and lentils with aromatic spices makes this dish a true staple of the South Indian kitchen. Enjoy!
