Spicy Tomato Rice – Tomato Pulihora Recipe
The Spicy Tomato Rice, also known as Tomato Pulihora, is an authentic Andhra delicacy that is bursting with tangy flavors and aromatic spices. This vibrant dish is a South Indian classic, often enjoyed as a main course, especially during festivals or as a quick comforting meal. Infused with the bold flavors of Bisi Bele Bath spice powder, tomatoes, and a unique tempering, this recipe is simple to prepare and pairs beautifully with traditional accompaniments like curd, dal podi, or a fresh vegetable salad.
Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: South Indian
- Course: Main Course
- Diet: Vegetarian
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked rice | 2 ½ cups |
| Tomatoes | 3 |
| Bisi Bele Bath Spice Powder | 3 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
For Tempering
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chana dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1 teaspoon |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | ½ teaspoon |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | ½ teaspoon |
| Green Chili | 1, slit |
| Dry Red Chili | 1 |
| Cashew nuts or Peanuts | 2 teaspoons |
| Oil | 1 ½ tablespoons |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | ½ teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 240 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Tomato Puree
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- Blend the tomatoes in a mixer or blender until smooth, creating a fresh tomato puree. Set aside.
-
-
Prepare the Bisi Bele Bath Spice Powder (Optional)
- If you don’t have Bisi Bele Bath spice powder ready, you can prepare it beforehand. It takes an additional 10-15 minutes to make this spice mix.
-
Heat Oil and Start Tempering
- In a large wok or kadai, heat the oil over medium heat.
- Add the chana dal, urad dal, and cashews (or peanuts). Stir-fry for about 10-20 seconds until they turn golden brown and emit a nutty aroma.
-
Add the Spices and Chilies
- Once the dals and nuts are roasted, add the cumin seeds, mustard seeds, slit green chili, dry red chili, asafoetida, and a few fresh curry leaves.
- Stir briefly until the mustard seeds crackle and the spices release their aroma.
-
Cook the Tomato Puree
- Carefully pour the tomato puree into the tempering mixture. Be cautious as it may splatter.
- Add the Bisi Bele Bath spice powder and salt. Mix well to combine.
-
Simmer the Mixture
- Let the tomato mixture cook for about 7-8 minutes on medium heat. Stir occasionally.
- Cook until the oil starts separating from the tomato mixture, and it thickens slightly.
-
Combine with Cooked Rice
- Transfer the tomato mixture to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the cooked rice and gently mix until all the rice grains are coated evenly with the flavorful tomato masala.
-
Taste and Adjust
- Taste the rice and adjust the salt or spice levels, if necessary.
-
Serve
- Serve the Spicy Tomato Rice with a bowl of curd (yogurt), Andhra-style Paruppu Podi (Dal Podi), or a fresh Indian vegetable salad for a complete meal.
Chef’s Tips
- Perfect Rice Texture: Ensure the cooked rice is fluffy and grains are separated. Avoid mushy rice for the best results.
- Custom Spices: If you don’t have Bisi Bele Bath powder, you can substitute it with a mix of sambar powder and garam masala for a similar flavor profile.
- Nuts Options: Cashews or peanuts add a delightful crunch, but you can skip them if you prefer a nut-free dish.
- Storage: Tomato Pulihora tastes even better the next day as the flavors intensify. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this delicious Spicy Tomato Rice with:
- Yogurt (Curd): The cooling effect of curd balances the spice.
- Andhra Paruppu Podi (Dal Podi): Adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Indian Vegetable Salad: A crunchy and refreshing accompaniment.
This vibrant and tangy Tomato Pulihora recipe is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to become a favorite at your table!
