Tomato Puliyogare (Spicy Tomato Rice)
Description:
Tomato Puliyogare is a flavorful and tangy South Indian dish, bursting with the rich taste of tomatoes and a blend of aromatic spices. This vibrant rice dish is made with fresh tomatoes, tamarind, and an assortment of spices, creating a perfect balance of spice and sourness. It’s a must-try for those who love the authentic taste of South Indian cuisine and seek a comforting yet exciting main course.
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Main Course
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | 2-1/2 cups (cooked) |
| Tomatoes | 3, chopped |
| Bisi Bele Bhaat Powder | 3 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Chana Dal | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| White Urad Dal | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Green Chilli | 1, slit |
| Dried Red Chilli | 1, broken |
| Cashew Nuts | 2 teaspoons |
| Oil | 1-1/2 tablespoons, as needed |
| Asafoetida | 1/2 teaspoon |
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 3-4
Instructions
-
Prepare Tomatoes
Begin by chopping the tomatoes into small pieces. Once chopped, transfer them to a mixer grinder and blend them into a smooth puree. -
Tempering the Spices
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chana dal, urad dal, and cashew nuts. Let them fry for about 10 to 20 seconds until they turn golden brown. -
Add the Seeds and Chilies
To the pan, add the cumin seeds, mustard seeds, green chili, dried red chili, and curry leaves. Let these temper for about 30 seconds, allowing the spices to release their flavors. -
Cook the Tomato Puree
Add the prepared tomato puree to the pan. Stir it well and let it cook for 7 to 8 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and the flavors to develop. Add the Bisi Bele Bhaat powder and salt to taste. Mix everything thoroughly. -
Combine with Rice
Once the tomato mixture has cooked and absorbed the flavors, turn off the heat. Add the cooked rice to the pan and gently mix everything together. Ensure the rice is well coated with the spicy tomato mixture. -
Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the Tomato Puliyogare to a serving bowl. Serve it hot with a side of Tomato Cucumber Raita and crisp papad for a delightful South Indian meal.
Tips:
- If you prefer a milder version, reduce the number of green chilies and dried red chilies.
- You can add a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the tangy flavor of the dish.
- For a crunchier texture, substitute cashews with peanuts.
Tomato Puliyogare is a perfect lunch or dinner option that combines the freshness of tomatoes with the warmth of spices, making it an irresistible dish to enjoy with family and friends.
