South Indian Pulihora: Traditional Tamarind Rice Recipe 

By Deepali Verma

August 16, 2024

Pulihora, also known as tamarind rice, is a tangy and flavourful South Indian dish that's perfect for festive occasions or a simple meal. Here’s how to make it. 

Ingredients 

2 cups cooked rice 2 tbsp tamarind pulp 1 tbsp sesame oil 1 tsp mustard seeds 1 tsp urad dal (split black gram) 1 tsp chana dal (split chickpeas) 2-3 dried red chillies A pinch of asafoetida 10-12 curry leaves ¼ tsp turmeric powder 2 tbsp roasted peanuts Salt to taste 

Step 1

Soak tamarind pulp in warm water, extract the juice, and set aside.

Step 2

Heat sesame oil in a pan, add mustard seeds, urad dal, chana dal, dried red chillies, asafoetida, and curry leaves. Sauté until fragrant. 

Step 3

Heat sesame oil in a pan, add mustard seeds, urad dal, chana dal, dried red chillies, asafoetida, and curry leaves. Sauté until fragrant.  Add turmeric powder, tamarind juice, and salt. Cook until the mixture thickens. 

Step 4

Add the cooked rice and mix well until the rice is evenly coated with the tamarind mixture. Garnish with roasted peanuts and serve warm.