Bagala Bhath | Curd Rice | Thayir Sadam

Bagala Bhath, popularly known as curd rice, is a staple comfort food in South India. This dish, made by mixing curd (yogurt) with cooked rice, is simple, nourishing, and incredibly refreshing. In India’s hot and humid weather, Bagala Bhath is more than just a meal; it’s a remedy to cool down the body and prevent heat strokes.

The probiotic microbes in curd play a significant role in promoting gut health, aiding digestion, and maintaining a balanced intestinal flora. It’s light on the stomach yet satisfying, making it a go-to dish for all age groups, whether as a main course or a soothing end to a hearty meal.

Tips for Perfect Curd Rice

1. Rice Consistency: Use freshly cooked or leftover rice. For a creamy texture, cook the rice slightly softer than usual.

2. Curd Quality: Use thick, fresh curd. If your curd is too sour, dilute it slightly with milk for a milder taste.

3. Cooling Additions: Add finely chopped cucumber, grated carrots, or pomegranate seeds to enhance the flavor and cooling properties.

4. Tempering: A flavorful tempering with mustard seeds, curry leaves, ginger, green chilies, and asafoetida (hing) elevates the dish.

5. Herbs: Add finely chopped coriander or curry leaves for freshness.

6. Serving: Always serve Bagala Bhath chilled or at room temperature. Avoid reheating, as it can alter the flavor and texture.

Health Benefits of Curd Rice or Thayir Sadam

1. Body Cooling: The combination of curd and rice helps regulate body temperature and prevents dehydration.

2. Gut Health: Probiotics in curd improve digestion, boost immunity, and maintain a healthy gut microbiome.

3. Hydration: Perfect for hot weather, it replenishes the body’s water content and electrolytes.

4. Nutrition: Packed with calcium, protein, and essential nutrients, it’s a balanced and wholesome meal.

5. Stress Relief: The light and soothing nature of this dish can help reduce stress and improve mood.

This Bagala Bhath is more than just a dish; it’s an emotion, a comfort food that’s deeply rooted in South Indian cuisine and culture. Its simplicity, versatility, and health benefits make it a timeless recipe loved by all. Whether you’re looking for a cooling meal during summer, a light dish for digestion, or just something comforting to savor, Bagala Bhath is the perfect choice.

Pair it with pickle, papad, or a side of fried mor milagai (sun-dried chilies), and enjoy the ultimate soul-satisfying meal. It’s a dish that’s easy to prepare, nourishing, and always hits the right spot!

Ingredients

Cooked rice-1 cup

Curd-1 cup

Mustard seeds-1/2 tsp

Urud dhal-1/2 tsp

Carrots-1/2 chopped finely

Green chillies-1 chopped finely
Ginger-1 inch piece chopped very fine

Salt-to taste

Curry leaves and coriander leaves few

Asafetida a pinch

Pomegranate seeds-few

Method

👉Mash the cooked rice in a mixing bowl add curd and salt.

👉Heat oil in a tadka pan add mustard seeds,urud dhal,green chillies, ginger,carrots,curry leaves , asafetida and saute for few minutes.

👉Add this tempering to the curd rice and mix well. Check for salt.

👉Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and pomegranate seeds. Serve.

Preparation time-20 mins

Serves-4