Gongura Annam is a delightful and tangy rice dish that combines the vibrant flavours of gongura leaves and aromatic spices. This traditional South Indian recipe showcases the unique taste of gongura, also known as sorrel leaves, with a distinct tartness that adds a refreshing twist to the rice. With its bright red colour and zesty flavour, Gongura Annam is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds.
The star ingredient, gongura, is packed with nutrients and is known for its health benefits. Its sour taste is balanced perfectly with a medley of spices, including mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and red chillies, which infuse the rice with a tantalizing aroma. The cooked rice absorbs the tangy flavours of gongura, creating a harmonious blend of tastes with a hint of spiciness.
Gongura Annam is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with various accompaniments. Its tanginess pairs well with cooling raita, such as cucumber raita or onion tomato raita, which adds a creamy and refreshing element. It also complements traditional South Indian side dishes like papad, pickle, and fried curd chillies. For a complete meal, serve Gongura Annam alongside traditional Indian curries like sambar or rasam.
Gongura Annam
Gongura Annam
Ingredients
- 1 cup Rice cooked
- 1 tbsp Oil
- 1 Onion finely sliced
- as required Gongura Pachadi
- as per taste Salt
- 2 tbsp White Sesame Seeds roasted and powdered coarsely
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan.
- Add the onion and fry over moderate heat for 4 to 5 minutes, till golden.
- Add the cooked rice, gongura pachadi and salt.
- Mix well.
- Sprinkle some sesame seeds on top.
- Serve at once.
Frequently Asked Questions about Gongura Annam
Can Gongura Annam be made with other types of rice?
Absolutely! While Gongura Annam is traditionally made with plain rice, you can experiment with different varieties to add depth to the dish. Basmati rice, for example, brings a fragrant aroma and long grains that complement the tangy gongura flavours. You can also try using brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist. Each rice type will lend its unique texture and taste to the dish, so feel free to get creative and find your favourite combination.
Is Gongura Annam a complete meal, or should it be served with other dishes?
Gongura Annam can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or as a more extensive spread. It is a flavorful dish, but you can enhance the meal by pairing it with various accompaniments. Raita, such as cucumber raita or onion tomato raita, provides an excellent and creamy contrast to the tangy rice. You can also serve Gongura Annam with traditional South Indian side dishes like papad, pickle, and fried curd chillies. Complement it with curries like sambar or rasam for a more substantial meal. The choice is yours, depending on your appetite and preference.
Can Gongura Annam be made without spices for a milder taste?
While spices are integral to Gongura Annam, you can adjust the spice level according to your preference. If you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the number of red chillies or omit them altogether. This will result in a less spicy but still flavorful dish. Additionally, you can balance the tanginess of gongura by adding a little jaggery or sugar to mellow the flavours. Feel free to experiment and tailor the recipe to your taste buds.
