Pulihora

A traditional South Indian rice dish

Pulihora

A serving of Pulihora

Pulihora, also known as Puliyodarai, Puliyogare, or simply Tamarind Rice, is a popular rice dish in South Indian cuisine. It is characterized by its tangy and spicy flavor, primarily derived from tamarind, a key ingredient in the dish. Pulihora is often prepared during festivals, special occasions, and as a prasadam in temples.

Ingredients

The main ingredients of Pulihora include:

• Rice: Typically, long-grain rice is used, cooked and cooled before mixing with the tamarind paste.
• Tamarind: The pulp is extracted from tamarind pods and cooked to form a thick paste.
• Spices: Common spices include mustard seeds, turmeric, red chili, and asafoetida.
• Peanuts: Roasted peanuts add a crunchy texture to the dish.
• Curry leaves: These are used for flavoring and garnishing.
• Sesame oil: Often used for its distinct flavor.

Preparation

The preparation of Pulihora involves several steps:

Cooking the Rice

The rice is cooked until it is fluffy and each grain is separate. It is then spread out to cool, preventing it from becoming sticky.

Making the Tamarind Paste

The tamarind pulp is boiled with water, salt, turmeric, and other spices until it thickens into a paste. This paste can be stored and used as needed.

Tempering

In a pan, sesame oil is heated, and mustard seeds are added until they splutter. Curry leaves, red chilies, and peanuts are then added and fried until golden brown.

Mixing

The cooled rice is mixed with the tamarind paste and tempered spices. The mixture is gently tossed to ensure even coating of the rice with the paste.

Cultural Significance

Pulihora is not just a dish but a part of the cultural fabric of South India. It is often prepared during festivals such as Ugadi, Diwali, and Pongal. In temples, it is offered as prasadam to devotees, symbolizing the sharing of food and blessings.

Variations

There are several regional variations of Pulihora:

• Andhra Pulihora: Known for its spiciness, it often includes green chilies and more red chili powder.
• Tamil Nadu Puliyodarai: This version is slightly sweeter and includes jaggery.
• Karnataka Puliyogare: Often includes a special spice mix called Puliyogare powder.

Related pages

• South Indian cuisine
• Tamarind
• Rice dishes
• Indian festivals