Thayir Semiya (Curd Semiya) Recipe: A Simple and Delicious Indian Delight
If you’re looking for a quick, light, and wholesome meal, Thayir Semiya, or Curd Semiya, is the perfect choice. A comforting dish often enjoyed during lunch or dinner, Thayir Semiya is made with roasted vermicelli, mixed with yogurt, and tempered with spices. This vegetarian recipe combines the rich flavors of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and a crunchy garnish of peanuts and cashew nuts, making it both flavorful and satisfying.
This recipe is not just easy to make but also packed with nutrition, offering a great balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, making it ideal for a weeknight meal or a light lunch. Let’s dive into the simple process of making Thayir Semiya at home!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Semiya (Vermicelli) | 1/2 cup (roasted) |
| Curd (Dahi / Yogurt) | 1 cup |
| Mustard seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Sunflower oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Raw peanuts (Moongphali) | As required (for roasting) |
| Cashew nuts | 5 to 6 (for garnishing) |
Preparation Time:
- 15 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 20 minutes
Total Time:
- 35 minutes
Servings:
- 4
Cuisine:
- Indian
Course:
- Lunch or Dinner
Diet:
- Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Boil the Semiya (Vermicelli):
To start, bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a pan. Add the roasted semiya and cook it until soft but not mushy. Drain the semiya in a colander, then rinse it under cold water to prevent it from becoming sticky. Set the vermicelli aside to cool. -
Roast the Peanuts:
Heat a wok or kadai on medium heat and add a teaspoon of sunflower oil. Once the oil is hot, add the raw peanuts and roast them until they turn golden brown. This adds a delightful crunch to your Thayir Semiya. Once done, remove the peanuts and set them aside. -
Prepare the Tempering (Tadka):
In the same kadai, add another teaspoon of sunflower oil if needed. Once the oil heats up, add mustard seeds. When the seeds start to splutter, toss in the white urad dal, curry leaves, and a pinch of asafoetida (hing). Sauté everything for a few seconds until the ingredients release their aromatic flavors. -
Combine the Vermicelli:
Now, add the boiled and drained vermicelli to the kadai with the tempered spices. Mix everything gently, ensuring the spices coat the vermicelli evenly. Add salt to taste and stir well. -
Add the Curd (Yogurt):
Just before serving, pour in the yogurt (curd) and mix it thoroughly with the semiya. The yogurt gives this dish its signature creamy and tangy flavor, making it both refreshing and soothing. -
Garnish and Serve:
To garnish, add the roasted peanuts and cashew nuts on top of the semiya for an extra crunch. Give it a final stir, and your delicious Thayir Semiya is ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve Thayir Semiya on its own for a light and healthy lunch or dinner. It pairs wonderfully with a side of pickles or papad for an extra burst of flavor. This dish is perfect for a quick meal or even a picnic, as it remains fresh and flavorful when stored in an airtight container.
Tips for Making the Perfect Thayir Semiya:
- Vermicelli Texture: When boiling the vermicelli, make sure to not overcook it. The vermicelli should remain firm and not mushy, so be careful while cooking.
- Roast the Peanuts Well: Roasting the peanuts until they turn golden brown adds a wonderful texture and nutty flavor to the dish, which balances the creaminess of the curd.
- Customize the Heat: If you prefer a spicier version, you can add chopped green chilies along with the tempering or sprinkle red chili powder as a garnish.
Why You’ll Love Thayir Semiya:
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in under 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want something light yet satisfying.
- Nutritious: The combination of yogurt, peanuts, and cashews provides healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins, making it a great choice for a well-balanced meal.
- Versatile: You can easily modify this recipe by adding vegetables like grated carrots, peas, or cucumber for added freshness and nutrition.
Thayir Semiya is an authentic, comforting Indian dish that is sure to delight your taste buds. With its tangy curd, crunchy peanuts, and flavorful tempering, it makes for a wholesome and satisfying meal. Whether you enjoy it on its own or as part of a larger meal, Thayir Semiya is bound to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a taste of South India!
