Nellikai Saadam – Gooseberry Rice – South Indian Rice Recipe

Nellikai Saadam, also known as Gooseberry Rice, is a traditional South Indian rice dish that is packed with flavor and nutrition. The tangy and sour taste of the gooseberries or nellikai, combined with the aromatic spices and fluffy rice, make this dish a delightful treat for the taste buds. Gooseberries are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, making this dish not only tasty but also healthy. This dish is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a light meal. So, let’s dive into the recipe and enjoy the deliciousness of Nellikai Saadam.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped onions
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1 cup chopped gooseberries (nelli kai)
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon grated coconut
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed

Instructions:

1. Wash the rice thoroughly and soak it in water for 30 minutes.
2. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
3. Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter.
4. Add the cumin seeds, turmeric powder, and green chilies and sauté for a few seconds.
5. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
6. Add the chopped tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they turn soft.
7. Add the chopped gooseberries, grated ginger, and grated coconut and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
8. Drain the rice and add it to the pot. Sauté for a few minutes until the rice is well coated with the masala.
9. Add 2 cups of water and salt to taste. Mix well.
10. Bring the water to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice cook for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and all the water is absorbed.
11. Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
12. Fluff the rice with a fork and transfer it to a serving dish.
13. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.

Nellikai Saadam or Gooseberry Rice is a traditional South Indian rice dish that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. The tangy and sour taste of the gooseberries or nellikai, combined with the aromatic spices and fluffy rice, make this dish a delightful treat for the taste buds. Gooseberries are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, making this dish not only tasty but also healthy. This dish is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a light meal. So, why not give this recipe a try and enjoy the deliciousness of Nellikai Saadam today!