Dahi Chawal
A comforting South Indian classic made with soft-cooked rice, creamy yogurt, and a flavorful tempering of spices. This simple, cooling dish is perfect for a light lunch or as an accompaniment to any Indian meal.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Cook the Rice
- b.Rinse 1 cup of rice thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear.
- c.In a pressure cooker, combine the rinsed rice with 3 cups of water.
- d.Pressure cook on medium heat for 4-5 whistles, or until the rice is very soft and mushy. Allow the pressure to release naturally.
- e.Once the cooker has depressurized, open the lid. While the rice is still warm, mash it gently with the back of a spoon or a potato masher to achieve a creamy consistency. Set aside to cool completely, for about 20-30 minutes.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Curd Mixture
- b.In a large mixing bowl, ensure the mashed rice has cooled down to room temperature.
- c.Add 2 cups of whisked curd, 0.5 cup of milk, and 1 tsp of salt to the rice.
- d.Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy. There should be no lumps.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Prepare the Tempering (Tadka)
- b.Heat 2 tbsp of ghee in a small pan (tadka pan) over medium heat.
- c.Once the ghee is hot, add 1 tsp of mustard seeds and allow them to splutter, which takes about 30 seconds.
- d.Add 1 tsp of urad dal and 1 tsp of chana dal. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously, until they turn a light golden brown.
- e.Add the chopped ginger, slit green chilies, broken dried red chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté for another 30-40 seconds until the curry leaves are crisp and the mixture is fragrant.
- f.Finally, add 0.25 tsp of asafoetida, give it a quick stir for 5 seconds, and immediately turn off the heat.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine and Serve
- b.Pour the hot tempering directly over the prepared curd rice mixture.
- c.Add 2 tbsp of chopped coriander leaves and 0.25 cup of pomegranate arils (if using).
- d.Gently mix everything together. For the best flavor, allow the Dahi Chawal to rest for at least 15 minutes for the flavors to meld.
- e.Serve chilled or at room temperature with a side of pickle or papad.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Always use rice that is completely cooled before adding yogurt to prevent it from splitting and becoming watery.
- 2Mashing the rice while it's still warm is key to achieving a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 3Adding milk helps balance the sourness of the yogurt and keeps the dish from turning too tart, especially if you're making it ahead of time.
- 4For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, thick, full-fat yogurt (curd).
- 5If the curd rice becomes too thick upon resting, you can adjust the consistency by adding a little more milk or water before serving.
- 6Serve Dahi Chawal chilled for a truly refreshing and cooling experience, especially during hot weather.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetable Dahi Chawal
Add finely grated carrots, chopped cucumber, or steamed peas to the curd rice mixture for added crunch, nutrition, and color.
Fruit Dahi ChawalFruit Dahi Chawal
For a sweet and savory twist, mix in chopped seedless grapes, pineapple chunks, or raw mango pieces.
Brown Rice Dahi ChawalBrown Rice Dahi Chawal
Substitute white rice with brown rice for a healthier, high-fiber version. Note that brown rice will require more water and a longer cooking time.
Spicy Dahi ChawalSpicy Dahi Chawal
Increase the number of green chilies or add a pinch of finely chopped bird's eye chili to the tempering for an extra kick of heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Promotes Gut Health
The yogurt (curd) in Dahi Chawal is a rich source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support a healthy digestive system, improve digestion, and boost immunity.
Cooling Effect on the Body
Dahi Chawal is known for its cooling properties, making it an ideal meal during hot weather or to soothe an upset stomach. It helps in maintaining body temperature and preventing heat-related issues.
Easy to Digest
The combination of soft-cooked rice and yogurt is very light on the stomach and easy to digest. It's often recommended as a comfort food during illness or recovery.
Rich in Calcium and Protein
Yogurt and milk are excellent sources of calcium, which is vital for strong bones and teeth. They also provide high-quality protein necessary for muscle repair and overall body function.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Dahi Chawal is considered a healthy dish. The yogurt is a great source of probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. It's also rich in calcium and protein. The dish is light, easy to digest, and has a cooling effect on the body, making it an excellent choice, especially during summer.