Curd Rice Recipe | How to Make South Indian Thayir Sadam (Dahi Chawal)

If there is one dish that defines comfort food in Indian households, it is undoubtedly Curd Rice. Known as Thayir Sadam in Tamil Nadu, Dahi Chawal in North India, and Daddojanam in Andhra Pradesh, this humble bowl of yogurt rice recipe is more than just food – it is an emotion.

During scorching summers, a plate of creamy curd rice acts as a cooling dish, instantly refreshing the body. It is also a traditional part of South Indian festivals, temple prasadam, and everyday meals. Whether you are looking for an easy curd rice recipe for lunch, a quick curd rice dinner recipe, or a curd rice for babies, this dish is versatile, healthy, and soul-satisfying.

you’ll learn how to make curd rice step by step, the secret tips for the perfect texture, variations like curd rice with pomegranate, curd rice with cucumbers, or curd rice with boondi, and why this probiotic curd rice is one of the best choices for digestion and gut health.

About Curd Rice Recipe

The curd rice recipe combines freshly cooked rice with creamy curd (yogurt), salt, and a tempering of spices such as mustard seeds, curry leaves, ginger, and green chilies.

• In Tamil Nadu, it is called Thayir Sadam and served with a simple pickle.

• In Karnataka, it is known as Mosaranna, often with a touch of grated carrots.

• In Andhra Pradesh, Daddojanam is offered in temples as prasadam.

• In North India, it is simply called Dahi Chawal, a staple during summer months.

The dish is naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, and can be made without onion and garlic, making it perfect for fasting or temple offerings.

Ingredients for Curd Rice

Here’s what you need to prepare an authentic curd rice recipe at home:

• Rice – 1 cup (preferably short-grain rice for creamy texture)

• Curd (Yogurt) – 2 cups (fresh, not sour, full-fat preferred)

• Milk – ½ cup (optional, keeps the curd rice creamy for longer)

• Salt – to taste

For Tempering (Tadka):

• Ghee – 2 tsp

• Mustard seeds – 1 tsp

• Urad dal – 1 tsp

• Chana dal – 1 tsp

• Curry leaves – 8–10

• Green chili – 1 (finely chopped)

• Ginger – 1 tsp (finely grated)

• Dry red chili – 1

• Hing (asafoetida) – a pinch

Optional Garnishes:

• Pomegranate seeds

• Grated carrot

• Chopped cucumber

• Fried cashews

• Fresh coriander leaves

How to Make Curd Rice Step by Step

Step 1: Cook the Rice

1. Wash the rice thoroughly and pressure cook with 2 ½ cups water until soft.

2. Mash the rice lightly while it’s still warm to get a smooth texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Yogurt Base

1. Once the rice cools slightly (lukewarm, not hot), add ½ cup milk and mix.

2. Stir in 2 cups of fresh curd (yogurt).

3. Add salt to taste and mix until creamy.

👉 Tip: If making curd rice for lunchbox or travel, adding milk prevents the yogurt from turning sour.

Step 3: Tempering (Tadka)

1. Heat ghee in a small pan.

2. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.

3. Add urad dal, chana dal, curry leaves, green chili, ginger, dry red chili, and a pinch of hing.

4. Fry until golden and aromatic.

5. Pour this tempering over the rice-curd mixture and mix well.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Top with pomegranate seeds, grated carrot, or cucumber for freshness.

2. Garnish with coriander leaves.

3. Serve chilled or at room temperature with pickle, papad, or fryums.

Variations of Curd Rice Recipe

1. Curd Rice with Pomegranate – Adds a burst of sweetness and crunch.

2. Curd Rice with Cucumbers – Keeps it extra cooling, perfect for summer.

3. Curd Rice with Boondi – Adds a crispy texture when served fresh.

4. Curd Rice with Coconut – South Indian style with grated coconut in the tempering.

5. Curd Rice without Onion and Garlic – Ideal for festivals and fasting.

6. Curd Rice with Mango – A unique summer twist by adding ripe mango cubes.

Health Benefits of Curd Rice

• Probiotic Power: The yogurt provides healthy gut bacteria, aiding digestion.

• Cooling Effect: Acts as a natural coolant during hot weather.

• Rich in Calcium: Strengthens bones and teeth.

• Easy to Digest: Soft rice and yogurt make it light on the stomach.

• Great for Kids & Elderly: Nutritious and easily chewable.

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, approx.)

• Calories: 250 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 38 g

• Protein: 8 g

• Fat: 7 g

• Calcium: 150 mg

• Probiotics: Rich source

Chef Tips for Perfect Curd Rice

• Use short-grain rice like sona masoori for a creamy texture.

• Always let the rice cool slightly before adding curd, or it may split.

• Add milk if preparing in advance – it prevents sourness.

• For temple prasadam style, add grated ginger and curry leaves generously.

• Serve with pickle, papad, or fried green chili for a complete experience.

FAQs on Curd Rice Recipe

Q. Can I make curd rice in a pressure cooker?
Yes, cook the rice in a pressure cooker until very soft, mash it, and then follow the recipe.

Q. Is curd rice good for digestion?
Absolutely! It is one of the best curd rice for digestion dishes due to its probiotic content.

Q. Can I pack curd rice for lunch?
Yes, just add a little milk to prevent sourness and keep it in an airtight box.

Q. Is curd rice suitable for babies?
Yes, curd rice for babies is a nutritious and easily digestible meal (avoid chilies in tadka).

Q. Can I make curd rice without curd?
You can use buttermilk as an alternative, but authentic taste comes from curd.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair curd rice with pickle (mango or lemon pickle).

• Serve with papad, fryums, or roasted potatoes.

• In South Indian thalis, it’s the final course after sambar and rasam rice.

• For festivals, serve temple-style curd rice with coconut chutney.

Interesting Facts

Whether you call it Curd Rice, Dahi Chawal, or Thayir Sadam, this dish is the perfect example of how simple food can bring immense joy. From temple kitchens to modern lunchboxes, from everyday curd rice recipes to curd rice festival recipes, this humble dish has secured its place in every Indian home.

Next time you are tired, hungry, or just craving comfort, make this authentic curd rice recipe with fresh yogurt and soft rice, and enjoy it with your favorite pickle. Simple, soothing, and soul-satisfying – that’s the magic of curd rice!

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