Tamarind Rice (Imlee Chaul)
Tamarind Rice, or Imlee Chaul, is a flavorful and aromatic dish that perfectly balances tangy tamarind with a medley of spices. This beloved vegetarian recipe is popular for its warm, earthy flavor and is often enjoyed as a side dish or as a light meal. The rice is infused with the rich essence of tamarind and tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and crunchy peanuts. With its delightful combination of ingredients, this dish is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.
Spice Level: Medium
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Serves: 6
Views: 35,790
Rating: 3.7 (based on 16 votes)
Dietary Info: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tilda Basmati Rice (cooked) | 200g |
| Tamarind (hydrated in 100ml water) | 25g or 1 tbsp tamarind paste + 4 tbsp water |
| Coconut oil | 2 tbsp |
| Mustard seeds | 1 tsp |
| Urid dhal | ½ tbsp |
| Chana dhal | 1 tbsp |
| Fenugreek seeds | ½ tsp |
| Dried red chillies (broken) | 2 |
| Curry leaves | 5 |
| Onion (chopped) or Asafoetida | 1 onion or ½ tsp asafoetida |
| Peanuts | 1 tbsp |
| Turmeric | ½ tsp |
| Salt (to taste) | 1 tsp |
| Fresh coriander (for garnish) | A handful |
Allergen Information
This recipe contains peanuts, mustard seeds, and curry leaves, which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Please take necessary precautions if you’re cooking for someone with food allergies.
Dietary Preference
This dish is vegetarian, making it suitable for those following a plant-based or vegetarian diet. It can also be adapted for vegan diets by ensuring the oil is plant-based, which it already is in this recipe. It’s a delicious, nutritious choice for those seeking a flavorful yet simple meal.
Instructions
-
Prepare Rice and Tamarind Water:
Start by cooking the basmati rice and set it aside. For the tamarind water, hydrate the tamarind in 100ml of water or use 1 tablespoon of tamarind paste mixed with 4 tablespoons of water. Set this aside for later use. -
Temper the Spices:
Heat coconut oil in a large pan. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and wait for them to pop. Immediately add the urid dhal and chana dhal to the pan. Stir the ingredients as the dhal begins to toast and change color. -
Add Aromatics:
Once the dhal has browned slightly, add the fenugreek seeds and dried red chillies. Stir in the curry leaves, letting them release their fragrance. If you are using chopped onions, add them now, and sauté until they become golden brown. Alternatively, add the asafoetida and stir well. -
Toast the Peanuts and Spice Mix:
Add the peanuts to the pan, stirring them for a few minutes to toast them. Then, sprinkle in the turmeric powder and mix well. -
Incorporate Tamarind:
Pour the prepared tamarind water or paste into the pan. If you’re using tamarind water, allow it to cook for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly, enriching the flavors. -
Season and Combine:
Add salt to taste, then stir in the cooked basmati rice, ensuring it is thoroughly coated in the flavorful tamarind mixture. Heat through, making sure the rice absorbs all the spices. -
Finish and Serve:
Once everything is combined and heated through, remove from the heat. Garnish with a handful of fresh coriander leaves for a burst of freshness and color.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~220 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
| Sugars | 2g |
Tips and Advice
- Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the amount of dried red chillies or omit them entirely. Alternatively, add a pinch of chili powder to increase the heat level.
- Variation: Feel free to add vegetables like peas or carrots to make the dish more hearty and colorful. These vegetables can be sautéed along with the onions and spices.
- Vegan Option: This dish is already suitable for vegans as it uses coconut oil. You can also replace peanuts with cashews if you have an allergy to peanuts or want to try a different flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Tamarind rice is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with any curry or raita. Serve it as a side dish to complement other Indian meals or enjoy it as a main course with a side salad.
Conclusion
Tamarind Rice (Imlee Chaul) is a delightful, fragrant dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of tamarind, mustard seeds, and curry leaves in a simple yet satisfying way. With its medium spice level and balanced texture, this dish is perfect for anyone craving a savory, tangy rice dish. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply someone who loves flavorful food, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dining table. Enjoy this aromatic rice with friends and family, and savor the unique fusion of spices and textures!
