Spicy Tomato Rice – Tomato Pulihora Recipe
Indulge in the rich, tangy flavors of South India with this delightful Spicy Tomato Rice, or Tomato Pulihora. This vibrant dish marries the wholesome essence of rice with the fresh zest of tomatoes and a blend of aromatic spices. Perfectly balanced, it serves as a satisfying main course, ideal for a family meal or a festive gathering.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked rice | 2-1/2 cups |
| Tomatoes | 3 |
| Bisi Bele Bhat Spice Powder | 3 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Chana dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1 teaspoon |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Mustard seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Green Chilli | 1 |
| Dry Red Chilli | 1 |
| Cashew nuts or Peanuts | 2 teaspoons |
| Sunflower Oil | 1-1/2 tablespoons or as needed |
| Asafoetida (hing) | 1/2 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 7g |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 2g |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 5 minutes |
| Cooking | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
Servings
| Number of Servings | 3 |
Cuisine
| Type | South Indian Recipes |
|---|
Course
| Type | Main Course |
Diet
| Type | Vegetarian |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tomatoes: Start by roughly chopping the tomatoes and blending them in a mixer grinder until smooth. This fresh tomato puree is the heart of your dish.
-
Make the Spice Powder (if needed): If you don’t have Bisi Bele Bhat Spice Powder ready, you may want to prepare it beforehand. This typically takes about 10-15 minutes to achieve the perfect blend of flavors.
-
Heat the Oil: In a large wok or kadai, heat the sunflower oil over medium flame.
-
Roast the Lentils and Nuts: Once the oil is hot, add the chana dal, urad dal, and cashew nuts (or peanuts if you prefer). Roast these for about 10-20 seconds until they turn a light golden brown and are fragrant.
-
Add the Spices: Following this, add the cumin seeds, mustard seeds, green chilli, dry red chilli, asafoetida, and curry leaves. Allow the spices to sizzle for a few moments, releasing their essential oils and aromas.
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Incorporate the Tomato Puree: Carefully add the tomato puree to the wok, being mindful of any splattering. Stir well to combine.
-
Season and Cook: Sprinkle in the Bisi Bele Bhat spice powder and salt to taste. Let this mixture cook for about 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until you notice the oil separating from the mixture and the tomato pulp thickening slightly.
-
Combine with Rice: Once the mixture is cooked to perfection, turn off the heat. Transfer it to a wide bowl and gently fold in the cooked rice, ensuring that all the ingredients are well incorporated. Adjust the salt as necessary.
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Serve: Serve your Spicy Tomato Rice, or Tomato Pulihora, warm alongside a bowl of yogurt (curd), Andhra Style Paruppu Podi (Dal Podi), and an Indian Vegetable Salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
Tips for Serving
- Pair this dish with crunchy papadam for added texture.
- For a hint of freshness, serve with a side of sliced cucumbers or a tangy salad.
Enjoy the delightful blend of spices and the heartwarming flavors that make Spicy Tomato Rice a cherished staple in South Indian cuisine. Whether enjoyed on a busy weeknight or as part of a festive feast, this dish is sure to satisfy your palate and warm your heart.
