Curd Rice (Thayir Sadam) – Traditional South Indian Yogurt Rice

What Is Curd Rice?

Curd Rice, known as Thayir Sadam in Tamil cuisine, is a traditional South Indian rice dish prepared by mixing cooked rice with fresh yogurt and a light tempering of spices. It is typically served at the end of a meal and is valued for its cooling, soothing texture and balanced flavour.

Unlike spiced rice dishes such as Coconut Lemon Rice, Curd Rice focuses on softness and comfort. Medium-grain varieties such as Ponni rice are commonly used, as they cook tender and blend smoothly with yogurt without becoming sticky.

Ingredients

• 1 cup medium-grain rice (Ponni preferred)
• 1½ cups plain yogurt (fresh, not too sour)
• ½ cup milk (optional, for softer texture)
• 1 tablespoon oil or ghee
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon urad dal
• 1–2 dried red chillies
• Few curry leaves
• Salt to taste
• Optional garnish: grated carrot or pomegranate

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Cook the rice with slightly more water than usual to achieve a soft consistency. Allow it to cool completely before mixing with yogurt.

Step 2: Mix with Yogurt

Mash the cooled rice gently and combine with yogurt and milk. Add salt and mix until smooth and cohesive. The texture should be creamy but not watery.

Step 3: Prepare the Tempering

Heat oil or ghee in a small pan. Add mustard seeds, urad dal, dried red chillies and curry leaves. Allow them to splutter gently.

Step 4: Combine and Rest

Pour the tempering over the yogurt rice and mix well. Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish if desired.

Choosing the Right Rice for Curd Rice

Medium-grain rice varieties create the ideal soft texture required for Curd Rice. If you are unsure which rice suits your cooking needs, refer to our Indian Rice Guide for a detailed comparison of basmati, Sona Masoori, Ponni and other varieties.