Brahmin Ellu Sadam

Ingredients

• - sesame rice Brahmin style
• - 2 tbsp ghee
• - 1 tsp mustard seeds
• - 1/4 tsp asafoetida (hing)
• - Curry leaves
• - Salt to taste

Method

1. Dry roast sesame seeds: Heat a dry pan. Add 4 tbsp black sesame seeds (ellu). Roast 3-4 minutes stirring until they pop and are fragrant. Cool.
2. Grind ellu powder: Grind roasted black sesame seeds coarsely. Keep some texture.
3. Cook rice: Cook 2 cups raw rice for separate grains. Cool completely.
4. Make tempering: Heat 3 tbsp gingelly (sesame) oil. Add 1 tsp mustard seeds. When they pop add 1 tbsp urad dal and fry golden.
5. Add aromatics: Add 2 dried red chillies, 1 sprig curry leaves and a generous pinch of asafoetida.
6. Add sesame powder: Add the coarsely ground toasted black sesame seeds to the tempering. Toss on low heat 1 minute.
7. Add cold rice: Add cooled cooked rice. Fold gently.
8. Mix evenly: Fold until rice is coated with the dark sesame mixture.
9. Season: Add salt. Drizzle 1 tsp raw sesame oil.
10. Serve: Brahmin ellu sadam is made specifically with black sesame seeds and sesame oil for a more intense flavour. Made for festivals. Serve with papad.