Sesame Rice (Ellu Sadam): Authentic South Indian Recipe

20 minutes

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4.73 from 11 votes

About Sesame Rice (Ellu Sadam): Authentic South Indian Recipe

Ellu Sadam, or Sesame Rice, is a beloved traditional dish from Karnataka, South India, often gracing festive occasions and religious ceremonies. This flavorful rice dish features a fragrant and subtly spicy sesame seed powder, lending a unique nutty richness to every bite. Its preparation is a testament to South Indian culinary heritage, symbolizing purity and abundance.
Beyond its delicious taste, Ellu Sadam holds deep cultural significance, frequently prepared as an offering and cherished during festivals like Sankranti in both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The recipe's simplicity belies its profound connection to South Indian tradition and its ability to elevate any celebratory meal.
This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to recreate this authentic dish, allowing you to experience the rich flavors and cultural significance of Ellu Sadam in your own kitchen.
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Recipe Time & More

Prep10 minutes
Cook10 minutes
Total20 minutes
Calories345 kcal
Serves3
Served AsDinnerLunch
Recipe TasteCrunchySaltySpicy

Ingredients
 

For the Sesame Seed Powder

  • 1/2 cup Sesame Seeds also known as til
  • 3 tbsp Chickpea also known as chana dal, split
  • 3 tbsp Gram also known as urad dal, black, split
  • 7-8 Chili adjust to your spice preference, dried, red
  • 1/4 cup Curry Leaves

For the Rice Dish

Garnish (Optional)

  • 1/4 cup Cashew roasted and chopped
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Instructions
 

Prepare the Sesame Seed Powder

  • Dry roast sesame seeds, split chickpeas, split black gram, red chilies, and curry leaves in a pan over medium heat for 4-5 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned.
  • Allow the mixture to cool completely, then grind into a fine powder using a spice grinder or blender.

Cook the Ellu Sadam

  • Heat oil in a pan. Add asafoetida and curry leaves; sauté briefly.
  • Add cooked rice and salt. Stir well to combine.
  • Add the sesame seed powder and mix thoroughly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to heat through.
  • Stir in clarified butter (ghee) and mix well.

Garnish and Serve

  • Garnish with roasted cashews (optional).
  • Serve hot.

Recipe Notes

Expert Tips for the Best Ellu Sadam

  • For a richer flavor, use toasted sesame seeds. Toast them until they are fragrant and slightly golden brown.
  • Adjust the amount of red chilies according to your preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with fewer chilies and add more as needed.
  • Use freshly cooked rice for the best results. The rice should be fluffy and not sticky.
  • For an extra touch of authenticity, add a pinch of turmeric powder while roasting the spices.

Recipe Video

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4.73 from 11 votes

Recipe Nutrition

Calories: 345kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 7gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 14.4gSodium: 380mgFiber: 4g

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Priyashii's Kitchen
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4.73 from 11 votes

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