Close your eyes and imagine the vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas of South India. That’s the magic we’re bringing to your kitchen today with our irresistible Tomato Puliogere! This isn’t just a rice dish; it’s a symphony of tangy tomatoes, aromatic spices, and a comforting warmth that truly nourishes the soul. Often a staple in South Indian homes, Tomato Puliogere is cherished for its ability to transform simple rice into a flavour-packed meal, perfect for a quick lunch, a festive spread, or a satisfying dinner.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor: The tangy tomatoes combined with a medley of aromatic spices create a truly unforgettable taste experience.
- Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together quickly, especially if you have cooked rice on hand.
- Versatile & Adaptable: Enjoy it as a standalone meal or as a delightful side dish with your favorite South Indian accompaniments.
- Comfort Food: Warm, savory, and satisfying, it’s the ultimate pick-me-up dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
- Economical: Uses everyday pantry staples, making it a budget-friendly option for delicious home cooking.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons cashew or peanuts
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 dry red chilli
- 1 teaspoon white urad dal
- 1 teaspoon chickpea lentils (chana dal)
- Salt, as per taste
- 1 green chilli, slit
- 1-1/2 tablespoon oil
- 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- A few sprigs of curry leaves
- 3 teaspoons BC Belle Bhat powder
- 2-1/2 cups cooked rice
- 3 medium tomatoes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- To begin making your delicious Tomato Puliogere, first wash and roughly cut the tomatoes.
- Transfer the cut tomatoes into a mixer grinder and blend until you achieve a smooth puree. Set aside.
- Heat the oil in a large pan or kadai over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chana dal, urad dal, and cashews (or peanuts). Fry for about 10 to 20 seconds, or until they turn light golden brown and fragrant.
- Next, add the cumin seeds, mustard seeds, green chilli, dry red chilli, and curry leaves. Let them splutter for about 30 seconds.
- Immediately pour the prepared tomato puree into the pan and mix well with the tempering.
- Add the BC Belle Bhat powder and salt to taste. Mix thoroughly to combine all the flavors.
- Allow the mixture to cook on medium-low heat for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the raw smell of tomatoes disappears and the mixture thickens slightly. Then, turn off the gas.
- Transfer the cooked tomato mixture into a large bowl. Add the cooked rice and gently mix everything together, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the puliogere masala.
- Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Tomato Puliogere!
Serving Suggestions
Tomato Puliogere is incredibly versatile. For a complete and satisfying dinner, serve it piping hot with a refreshing tomato cucumber raita and crispy papad. It also pairs wonderfully with a simple side of plain yogurt, a dollop of pickle, or even a potato fry for a heartier meal. Don’t forget a fresh sprig of coriander for garnish!
Chefs Tips & Variations
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of green and dry red chillies according to your preference for heat.
- Nutty Crunch: For extra texture, roast some peanuts or cashews separately until golden, and add them as a garnish just before serving.
- Flavor Depth: While the recipe uses BC Belle Bhat powder, for a more traditional puliogere flavor profile, you could experiment with a specialized puliogere powder blend if you have it on hand, or add a tiny pinch of jaggery to balance the tang.
- Make Ahead: The tomato masala can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply mix with fresh cooked rice when ready to serve.
- Vary Your Rice: While Sona Masuri or regular short-grain rice works well, you can also use basmati or brown rice for a different texture and nutritional profile.