Curd Rice South Indian Yogurt Rice Recipe

I absolutely love this curd rice recipe because it brings together creamy yogurt and the comforting warmth of ghee, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. The burst of flavors from the mustard seeds, curry leaves, and pomegranate seeds make every bite an exciting adventure for my taste buds!

I adore how curd rice, a vestige of South Indian culture, so perfectly balances flavor and nutrition. It is a combination of rice, plain yogurt, and a hint of milk, even milder than the typical counterpart.

Proponents hail it for being teeming with probiotics. The dish is comfort food in our house, not just as a rare delicacy for days when our digestive systems demand a bit more care.

Curd rice is present in some way nearly every week.

Ingredients

Rice: Provides carbohydrates.

Rice adds softness and energy.

Probiotics abound in yogurt, giving it a rich source of these beneficial microorganisms.

They also contribute to the creamy texture and tangy flavor of yogurt.

Ghee: Imparts healthful fats and a deep, aromatic flavor.

Seeds of Mustard: They provide a spicy, nutty flavor, but are also enhanced by their anti-inflammatory properties.

Green chilies are full of vitamin C; they contribute heat and brightness.

Curry leaves contain a lot of antioxidants.

Their health benefits—and their aroma—make them a very good addition to any diet.

Ginger: Renowned for its digestive properties, it provides a warm, zesty spice.

Coriander leaves are rich in nutrients, and they impart a fresh, citrusy flavor.

Cashews: An optional way to add a crunchy texture with some added healthy fats and protein.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup milk
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon ghee
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon urad dal
• 1 teaspoon chana dal
• 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 8-10 curry leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves
• 1 tablespoon roasted cashews (optional)
• 1 tablespoon pomegranate seeds (optional)

Instructions

1. Wash the rice well in cold water and then place it in a pot with 2 cups of water. Heat the pot over high heat until the water starts to boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Cook the rice for about 15 minutes. Once the rice is finished cooking, turn off the heat and let the pot sit for 10 more minutes. Remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork.

2. Combine the plain yogurt and the milk in a large bowl. Stir in the slightly mashed cooked rice, mixing until creamy. Taste for salt and add if necessary.

3. In a small pan, over medium heat, heat the ghee. Add the mustard seeds and allow them to splutter.

4. Add the urad dal and chana dal to the pan, and sauté them until they turn golden brown.

5. Place the chopped green chilies, curry leaves, and grated ginger in the pan. Sauté for an additional minute until everything is perfumed.

6. Pour the tempered blend over the yogurt rice and mix well to combine all flavors.

7. Add the chopped coriander leaves and ensure they are evenly mixed in.

8. Add the roasted cashews to the yogurt rice for a delightful, crunchy texture.

9. If you want a burst of sweetness and color, add the pomegranate seeds. Fold them in gently.

10. Present the curd rice cool or at ambient temperature. It is a dish that is bracing as well as soothing.

Equipment Needed

1. Pot with a lid
2. Large bowl
3. Small pan
4. Measuring cups and spoons
5. Fork
6. Stirring spoon
7. Knife (for chopping)
8. Cutting board

FAQ

• Can I use any type of rice for Curd Rice?You can absolutely use any rice of medium to short grain for its slightly sticky texture that is just right for this dish.
• Is it necessary to use both yogurt and milk?Yogurt and milk together create a creamy consistency. They balance the tanginess, but you can adjust it to your taste.
• How can I make this dish vegan?Use a plant-based yogurt instead of the regular yogurt; for ghee, use vegetable oil.
• Can I prepare Curd Rice in advance?Certainly! Here’s a paraphrase of the sentence you provided:

  Absolutely, it has a delicious taste when served cold, but if it becomes too thick, stir in some milk or yogurt just before ladling it out.

• What is the purpose of tempering with mustard seeds and dals?In the main part of the dish, the most prominent flavors come through. But really, the dish has three main parts. Each one builds on the other and adds its own special touch. You have the main part you’re tasting, then the two accent parts. You pay the most attention to the flavors coming from the main part.
• How do I adjust the spice level?The heat can be modified by adjusting the amount and kind of green chili used in the recipe.
• Are there any optional garnishes?It is true that roasted cashews contribute a delightful crunch, and pomegranate seeds add sweet contrast. However, both of these ingredients are open to substitution.

Substitutions and Variations

Substituting basmati or jasmine rice for the regular rice is an option. In this case, you can adjust the water used in cooking as necessary.
An alternative to rice, bulgur or quinoa provide a different texture and nutrition profile.
You can use plain Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt to achieve a thicker consistency.
A vegan option is to use almond milk or coconut milk instead of cow’s milk.
Rather than using ghee, you can use sesame oil to impart a different flavor and provide a vegan substitute.

Pro Tips

1. Cooling the Rice Ensure the rice is cooled completely before mixing it with the yogurt. Adding hot rice can cause the yogurt to curdle, affecting the texture of the dish.

2. Thickening Tip If the yogurt mixture is too thick, adjust the consistency by adding more milk. This will help achieve the desired creamy texture without making the rice too runny.

3. Chill the Yogurt Rice For best results, chill the yogurt rice for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and gives the dish a refreshing quality that’s perfect for warm days.

4. Spice Adjustments If you prefer a milder flavor, consider deseeding the green chilies before adding them. Alternatively, add extra green chilies for more heat.

5. Freshness in Garnish Add freshly chopped coriander just before serving to maintain their vibrant color and fresh flavor, enhancing the overall appeal and taste of the dish.