Pulihora
(Sour Rice, Puliyodhara, Puliyogare, Puli choru, Chitrannam, Puliyodharai, Saddi, Pulisadham, Tamarind Rice)
Pulihora is a popular south Indian dish that can easily be found in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. It consists of rice, turmeric, tamarind, curry leaves, coriander, ginger, and green chiles. Additionally, yellow lentils, roasted sesame seed powder, and mustard seeds can be added to enhance the already rich flavors of the dish.
It is commonly prepared for festivals, yellow in color due to turmeric - considered sacred and symbolizing festive occasions in the Hindu world. The word puli in its name means sour, reflecting the tangy flavor of the dish. However, spicy and salty flavors that are also present in the dish are well balanced with the sour tamarind.
Other states also have their versions of pulihora, so in Tamil Nadu, it is called pulisadham, and in Karnataka, the dish is known as puliyogare. It is traditionally served with sun-dried chiles and yogurt (which is not vegan), making it a complete meal that is said to taste the best after resting for a couple of hours following its preparation.