Authentic South Indian Mosaranna (Curd Rice) Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups of cooked rice
1.5 cups of plain yogurt
1/2 cup of milk
1/2 teaspoon of salt
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon of cumin seeds
1 green chilli, finely chopped
1 inch piece of ginger, grated
10-12 curry leaves
2 tablespoons of finely chopped coriander leaves
1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder

Steps and instructions

Cook the rice until it is fully cooked and then let it cool.
In a large bowl, mix the cooled rice, yogurt, milk, and salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add the mustard seeds to the pan. Once they begin to splutter, add the cumin seeds.
Add the finely chopped green chilli, grated ginger, and curry leaves to the pan. Sauté for a few minutes until the spices are well roasted.
Add the turmeric powder to the pan and stir it into the spice mixture.
Pour the spice mixture over the rice and yogurt mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Garnish with the finely chopped coriander leaves before serving.

Tools for making

Large Bowl - for mixing the rice, yogurt, milk, and spices together
Pan - for heating and roasting the spices
Spatula - for stirring and combining the ingredients in the pan
Grater - for grating the ginger
Knife - for finely chopping the green chilli and coriander leaves
Measuring Cups - for measuring the rice, yogurt, milk, and salt
Measuring Spoons - for measuring the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and turmeric powder

Recipe variations

Add cooked vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and add more texture.
For a non-vegetarian option, you can add cooked and shredded chicken or cooked shrimp to the mosaranna.
Replace the plain yogurt with flavored yogurt like mango, strawberry, or pineapple for a different taste.
If you prefer a spicier version, add more green chillies or sprinkle some red chilli powder on top.
For a vegan option, replace the yogurt and milk with coconut milk or almond milk.
To make it more nutritious, you can add sprouts, nuts, or seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
Experiment with different spices like garam masala or chaat masala to give it a unique twist.
For a tangier taste, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a tablespoon of tamarind paste.
For a creamy texture, you can add a spoonful of ghee (clarified butter) to the mosaranna.

Recipe overview

This is a recipe for Mosaranna, a comforting, flavorful dish from South India. Mosaranna, also known as Curd Rice, is a simple yet delightful dish made primarily with rice and yogurt. It's a staple in many South Indian households and is often eaten at the end of a meal to help cool the stomach after a spicy feast. This recipe brings out the subtle flavors of mustard seeds, cumin, green chilli, and ginger, which are perfectly balanced by the creaminess of the yogurt. Expect a mild yet savory dish that's as comforting as it is satisfying. This dish is easy to prepare, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, especially on warm days. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with a side of your favorite pickle or chutney.

Common questions

Can I use any type of rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of cooked rice for this recipe. However, it is recommended to use long-grain rice for the best results.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for plain yogurt in this recipe. Keep in mind that Greek yogurt has a tangier flavor and thicker consistency.
Can I adjust the amount of spices?
Certainly! Feel free to adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preferences. You can increase or decrease the quantities mentioned in the recipe to suit your desired level of spiciness.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Mosaranna in advance. However, it is best to mix in the yogurt just before serving to maintain the freshness and texture of the dish.
Can I add any vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Mosaranna can be customized with the addition of various vegetables like grated carrots, diced cucumber, or finely chopped bell peppers. Simply add them to the rice and yogurt mixture before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the rice, yogurt, and spices together.
Pan - A frying pan or skillet to heat the oil and sauté the spices.
Spatula - A utensil to stir and combine the ingredients in the pan.
Serving Bowl - A bowl to serve the Mosaranna.
Garnish Knife - A knife to finely chop the coriander leaves for garnishing.

Origin stories

Mosaranna, also known as curd rice, is a comforting staple of South Indian cuisine, hailing from the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. It's often the comforting conclusion to a traditional South Indian meal, as the cool, creamy yogurt and rice combination is believed to aid in digestion. But the interesting part is, Mosaranna is not just a culinary delight, it holds a significant place in South Indian culture. In many Hindu temples across South India, it is offered as 'prasadam' (a religious offering) to the devotees. Similarly, in traditional South Indian homes, it is served on festive occasions as a part of the celebratory feast. A truly humble yet integral part of the South Indian palate, Mosaranna, with its creamy texture and tangy taste, is a testament to the richness and diversity of Indian cuisine.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.