South Karnataka Style Spicy Curry Rice

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we infuse the traditional Japanese Karē raisu with the distinct flavors of South Karnataka cuisine. The original dish is typically milder in spice and uses Japanese curry roux blocks for convenience. However, the South Karnataka version incorporates a variety of local spices, such as red chili powder, turmeric, and coriander, to create a spicier and more aromatic curry. Additionally, the choice of meat or vegetables may differ, with South Karnataka cuisine often featuring ingredients like chicken, mutton, or eggplant. We alse have the original recipe for Karē raisu, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) water 2 cups (470ml) water
• 1 cup (185g) basmati rice 1 cup (185g) basmati rice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 tomato, chopped 1 tomato, chopped
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 500g chicken or vegetables of your choice, cut into bite-sized pieces 500g chicken or vegetables of your choice, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy. Set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Once they start to splutter, add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
3. 3.
   Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder over the onion mixture. Stir well to combine the spices.
5. 5.
   Add the chopped tomato and cook until it turns soft and mushy.
6. 6.
   Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
7. 7.
   Add the chicken or vegetables to the pan and season with salt. Stir to coat the ingredients with the curry sauce.
8. 8.
   Cover the pan and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through or the vegetables are tender.
9. 9.
   Once the curry is ready, serve it over the cooked basmati rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken — Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly by checking that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Basmati rice — Rinse the rice well to remove excess starch for fluffier grains.
• Coconut milk — Shake the can of coconut milk before using to ensure the cream and liquid are well combined.
• Mustard seeds — Use caution when adding mustard seeds to hot oil, as they may splutter.
• Red chili powder — Adjust the amount of red chili powder according to your spice preference.

Tips & Tricks

• For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with paneer or mixed vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and peas.
• Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red chili powder and green chilies.
• Serve the Spicy Curry Rice with a side of raita (yogurt sauce) to balance the heat.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated the next day for an even more flavorful meal.
• Experiment with different meat options like mutton or seafood for a unique twist.

Serving advice

Serve the South Karnataka Style Spicy Curry Rice hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Accompany it with a side of raita and papadum for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Spicy Curry Rice in a shallow bowl, allowing the vibrant colors of the curry to shine. Garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro for an added touch of freshness.