1cupshort-grain ricePonni/ kolam/Sona masoori rice or 500 gm Boiled rice, soaked for 20 minutes (about 180g)
3tablespoonssunflower or vegetable oil
1/8teaspoonasafoetidahing
1/2tablespoonblack mustard seeds
1/2tablespoonfennel seeds
1 1/2tablespoonschana dalBengal gram
1nomedium red onionchopped
6-7clovesof garlicchopped
1/2inchchopped ginger
2nosprigs of curry leaves
3nomedium tomatoeschopped
1tablespoontable salt
1/8teaspooncinnamon powder
1/2teaspoonfennel powder
1tablespoonred chili powder
1 tbspcoriander leaveschopped
1teaspoonturmeric powder
1tbspMint leaveschopped
1tablespoonghee
Instructions
Prepare the Rice: Rinse and soak the short-grain rice (Kolam rice) in water for about 20 minutes. Drain and cook in boiling water
Heat the Oil: In a thick-bottomed pan, heat the oil over medium heat.
Infuse with Aromatics: Once the oil is heated, add in the asafoetida, mustard seeds, and fennel seeds. Let them sizzle and release their aromatic flavors into the oil.
Fry the Chana Dal: Toss in the chana dal and fry until it turns golden brown, imparting a nutty flavor to the dish.
Add the Onions and Spices: Stir in the chopped onions and green chilies, sautéing until the onions turn translucent. Then, add the chopped garlic and ginger, continuing to cook until they release their fragrance.
Aromatizing: Add curry leave and sauté for a couple of minute
Spice it Up: Sprinkle in the red chili powder, turmeric powder, fennel powder, and cinnamon powder. Mix well to ensure the spices coat the ingredients evenly.
Incorporate the Tomatoes: Now, add the chopped tomatoes and salt to the pan. Cook until the tomatoes break down and the mixture forms a thick, flavorful masala.
Blend in the Rice: Once the masala has cooked down and starts to leave the sides of the pan, gently fold in the boiled rice, chopped coriander leaves, and mint leaves. Mix everything together, ensuring the rice is well coated with the aromatic masala.
Finish with Ghee: For that final touch of indulgence, drizzle a tablespoon of ghee over the rice. This adds richness and enhances the flavors of the dish.
Serve and Enjoy: Your Tomato Flavored Rice, or Takkali Sadam, is now ready to be served! Garnish with additional coriander leaves for a burst of freshness and serve hot alongside your favorite accompaniments.
This delightful dish perfectly captures the essence of South Indian cuisine, boasting bold flavors and aromatic spices that will tantalize your taste buds with every bite. Give it a try and let the flavors transport you to the bustling streets of Tamil Nadu!