18+ Delicious Iyer Recipes You Must Try for Your Next Family Feast!
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!
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: 45 min Total Time: 45 min.
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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.
Ingredients: Drumsticks, baby onion, tamarind paste, sambar powder, tomato Total Time: 40 min.
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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)
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.
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 45 min Total Time: 45 min.
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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!
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 40 min Total Time: 40 min.
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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!
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.
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Urad dal, mixed vegetables, peas, ginger, curry leaves Total Time: 15 min.
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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.
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!
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!
