Curd Rice: A Comforting Rice Dish From South India

In South Indian households, curd rice is often associated with home-cooked meals and is a common dish served to family members. The familiar taste and aroma of the dish can evoke feelings of nostalgia and a sense of warmth and comfort associated with home-cooked meals. South Indian style curd rice, also known as "Thayir Sadam" in Tamil, is a popular dish in the southern regions of India, particularly in the states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh. It is a simple and comforting dish made by combining cooked rice with curd or yoghurt, tempering with spices, and garnishing it with herbs. A few add-ons include grapes or pomegranate and roasted cashews too.

To prepare curd rice, cooked rice is mixed with fresh, thick curd or yoghurt and seasoned with salt. And then, temper a mixture of mustard seeds, urad dal, chana dal, curry leaves, and green chillies in hot oil before combining it with rice and yoghurt, which gives it a distinctive aroma and flavour. Finally, chopped coriander leaves or grated carrots are added to give them some freshness and colour.

Curd rice is typically served as a side dish with spicy curries or pickles or enjoyed on its own as a light and refreshing meal. It is a popular dish served during festivals, weddings, and other special occasions. In addition to its delicious taste, curd rice has several health benefits. Yoghurt is a good source of probiotics, which promote digestive health and boost the immune system. Rice is also a good source of carbohydrates, which provide energy to the body. The spices used in tempering are known for their medicinal properties and help aid digestion.

Why is curd rice a comforting dish?

Curd rice is often considered a comforting dish for several reasons. Firstly, the cool and creamy texture of the curd or yoghurt mixed with the soft and fluffy rice can be soothing and satisfying to eat, particularly on a hot day or when one is feeling unwell. Additionally, the spices used in the tempering of curd rice, such as mustard seeds and curry leaves, are known for their digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. These spices can help soothe an upset stomach and promote overall digestive health, which can contribute to a sense of comfort.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup fresh curds or yoghurt
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons of oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon urad dal
• 1 teaspoon chana dal
• 1-2 green chillies, chopped
• A few curry-leaves
• A handful of chopped coriander leaves (optional)
• Grated carrots (optional)
• pomegranate seeds (optional)

Method

• Take the cooked rice in a mixing bowl and let it cool down to room temperature.
• Add the fresh curd or yoghurt and salt to the rice and mix well. The rice should be well coated with the curd.
• Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Add mustard seeds to the hot oil and let them crackle.
• Add urad dal and chana dal and fry until they turn golden brown.
• Add the chopped green chillies and curry leaves and fry for a few seconds.
• Pour the tempering over the curd rice and mix well.
• Garnish with chopped coriander leaves, pomegranates and grated carrots (if using).
• Serve chilled or at room temperature as a side dish or a light meal.