How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, you can prepare the tamarind rice balls the morning of serving; just add garnish and peanuts fresh before serving.

What can I substitute for jaggery?

You can use brown sugar or coconut sugar as a substitute for jaggery.

How should I reheat the rice balls?

Reheat gently in a microwave or steam them for a few minutes to maintain moisture.

Are there any dietary tweaks for vegans?

Ensure to use plant-based oil like coconut oil instead of ghee for roasting the peanuts.

Southern Indian Tamarind Rice Balls with Spiced Peanuts

Name: Southern Indian Tamarind Rice Balls with Spiced Peanuts
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 2 cups basmati rice; 1/2 cup tamarind paste; 1/4 cup jaggery; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 1 teaspoon mustard seeds; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder; Salt to taste; 1 cup raw peanuts; 1 tablespoon ghee; 1 teaspoon red chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida; Salt to taste; Fresh coriander leaves; Curry leaves

A Tangy and Nutty Delight

Delight in the tanginess of tamarind perfectly balanced with spicy peanuts, a unique twist on traditional rice dishes from Southern India.

1 h 30 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Tamarind Rice Balls

2 cups basmati rice

rinsed and cooked

1/2 cup tamarind paste

1/4 cup jaggery

grated

2 tablespoons sesame oil

1 teaspoon mustard seeds

1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

Salt to taste

For the Spiced Peanuts

1 cup raw peanuts

1 tablespoon ghee

1 teaspoon red chili powder

1/2 teaspoon asafoetida

Salt to taste

For Garnishing

Fresh coriander leaves

chopped

Curry leaves

fried

Preparation

Preparing the Tamarind Base

Heat Oil and Mustard Seeds

In a pan, heat sesame oil and add mustard seeds. Once they start to splutter, add turmeric powder.

Cook Tamarind Paste & Jaggery

Stir in the tamarind paste and jaggery, cooking for about 5 minutes until well-blended.

Use fresh tamarind paste for a more authentic taste.

Season and Cool

Add salt and mix thoroughly, then set aside to cool slightly.

Ensure the tamarind mixture is not too hot before incorporating with rice to avoid clumping.

Spicing the Peanuts

Roast Peanuts

In a separate pan, heat ghee and add peanuts. Roast them until golden brown.

Spice Peanuts

Sprinkle red chili powder, asafoetida, and salt, and mix quickly to coat the peanuts evenly.

Cool Peanuts

Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Cooking Process

Incorporate Rice

Mix the tamarind base with the cooked rice gently until rice is evenly coated.

Form Rice Balls

With damp hands, shape the rice into medium-sized balls.

Add Spiced Peanuts

Gently press 3-4 spiced peanuts into each rice ball for flavor and crunch.

Plating & Serving