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If you’re looking to spice up your next family gathering, Iyer cuisine has some gems that are sure to impress. Rich in flavors and tradition, these dishes bring a taste of South India right to your table. Let’s explore some mouthwatering recipes that will make your feast unforgettable!
Tomato Rice


Tomato Rice Recipe (Indian Style) from Swasthi's Recipes
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 45 min Total Time: 45 min.

Tomato Rice Recipe (South Indian Thakkali Sadam) from Dassana's Veg Recipes
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 40 min Total Time: 40 min.
Tomato Rice is a vibrant dish that bursts with the sweet and tangy flavors of ripe tomatoes. Cooked with aromatic spices, this one-pot wonder is both comforting and satisfying.
- 2 cups of rice
- 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 onion, finely sliced
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
- 2 tablespoons oil
This dish is a staple in many Iyer households, often enjoyed with a side of raita or papad. Its simplicity and the delightful aroma of spices make it a go-to for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
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Vegetable Sambar


Sambar Recipe, How to Make Sambar from Swasthi's Recipes
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Bhindi, split pigeon peas, chana dal, urad dal, drumsticks Total Time: 50 min.

Traditional Sambar Recipe from Dassana's Veg Recipes
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Arhar dal, pearl onions, coconut oil, drumsticks, french beans Total Time: 45 min.

Vegetable Sambar from Playful Cooking
Ingredients: Drumsticks, baby onion, tamarind paste, sambar powder, tomato Total Time: 40 min.
Sambar is a hearty lentil-based stew that’s packed with vegetables and flavored with tamarind and a special spice blend. It’s a staple in South Indian cuisine and a true comfort food.
- 1 cup toor dal (pigeon peas)
- 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, pumpkin)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sambar powder
- 1 tablespoon tamarind pulp
- Salt to taste
- Curry leaves and coriander for garnish
- 2 tablespoons oil
What makes sambar special is its versatility; you can use seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand. It’s commonly served with rice, idli, or dosa, making it a beloved favorite at family meals.
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Curd Rice


Curd Rice Recipe | Thayir Sadam Recipe from Raks Kitchen
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 30 min Total Time: 30 min.
This cooling dish is a wonderful blend of yogurt and rice, creating a creamy and soothing combination that’s perfect for hot days. Often seasoned with mustard seeds and curry leaves, it’s a refreshing side that complements spicy dishes.
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida
- 2 green chilies, chopped
- Curry leaves
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
- 2 tablespoons oil
Curd rice is often called the “comfort food” of South India, especially after a spicy meal. It’s not just a dish; it’s a way to cool your palate and enjoy the goodness of yogurt!
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Vada Curry

vada curry recipe | vadacurry recipe | vadakari recipe from Hebbar's Kitchen
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 40 min Total Time: 40 min.
Imagine crispy, golden-brown lentil fritters soaked in a rich and spicy gravy. Vada curry is a delightful dish that combines textures and flavors in every bite.
- 1 cup urad dal (black gram)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 green chilies, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
- Oil for deep frying
This dish is often enjoyed with rice or as a filling snack on its own. The combination of the crunchy vadas and the flavorful curry sauce makes it a hit at any gathering!
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YouTube
(youtube.com)
Rasam
Rasam is a tangy and spicy soup that’s a staple at any Iyer meal. It’s made with tamarind, tomatoes, and a unique blend of spices, making it incredibly flavorful.
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup tamarind pulp
- 1 teaspoon rasam powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- Curry leaves
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
- 2 tablespoons oil
Rasam is often served with rice or enjoyed as a soup. Its tangy flavor revitalizes the palate and is known for its soothing properties, especially during cold nights.
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Upma

Upma Recipe (South Indian Rava Upma) from Dassana's Veg Recipes
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Chana dal, urad dal, ginger, curry leaves, sugar Total Time: 30 min.

Rava Upma Recipe from Raks Kitchen
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Chana dal, urad dal, coconut oil, mustard, curry leaves Total Time: 20 min.

Vegetable Rava Upma Recipe from Edible Garden
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Urad dal, mixed vegetables, peas, ginger, curry leaves Total Time: 15 min.
Upma is a savory semolina dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavors. It’s often enhanced with vegetables and spices, making it a filling breakfast or snack option.
- 1 cup semolina (sooji)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 green chilies, chopped
- 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans)
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- Salt to taste
- Curry leaves
- 2 tablespoons oil
Upma is loved for its versatility—add whatever vegetables you like or even some nuts for crunch. It’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for breakfast or a light dinner!
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Chutney
No meal is complete without a delicious chutney to accompany it! This particular coconut chutney is creamy, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with dosas and idlis.
- 1 cup grated coconut
- 2 green chilies
- 1 tablespoon ginger
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
- Curry leaves
- 2 tablespoons oil
Coconut chutney is cherished for its cooling effect, balancing out the spices of other dishes. It’s a simple yet delicious addition that can elevate any spread!