Mango Rice (Mavinakayi Chitranna)

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Leena Kohli (@leenakohli)

Mango Rice, also known as Raw Mango Rice or Mamidikaya Pulihora in Telugu and Mavinakayi Chitranna in Kannada, is a tasty South Indian dish that beautifully balances tangy and savoury flavours. This easy mango rice recipe is popular during the summer months when raw mangoes are at their peak. However,...

Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
15min
Total Time
30min
Mango Rice (Mavinakayi Chitranna) recipe

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 cup)
  • 4cups
    cooked Rice
  • 3tbsp
    Oil
  • 1tsp
    Mustard Seeds
  • 4piece
    Dry Red Chillies
  • 1tsp
    Coriander Seeds
  • 1tbsp
    Chana Dal
  • 1tbsp
    Urad Dal
  • 1/3cup
    Raw Peanuts
  • 1sprig
    Curry Leaves
  • 1/2cup
    Fresh Coconut, sliced
  • 2cups
    Raw Mango, grated
  • 2piece
    Green Chillies, slit
  • 1/2tsp
    Turmeric
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh Coriander leaves for garnishing

How to make Mango Rice (Mavinakayi Chitranna)

  1. Wash, peel, and grate or finely chop the raw mangoes. Set them aside.

  2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and allow them to crackle.

  3. Add the dry red chillies, coriander seeds, chana dal, urad dal, and peanuts. Sauté until the peanuts turn light golden brown and the dals are crispy.

    Step 1.1: Add the dry red chillies, coriander seeds, chana dal, urad dal, and peanuts
  4. Add curry leaves, sliced coconut, and green chillies to the pan. Cook for a few minutes until the curry leaves become slightly crisp and the coconut starts to brown.

    Step 1.1: Add curry leaves, sliced coconut, and green chillies to the pan
  5. Add the grated raw mango and turmeric powder to the pan. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the raw smell of the mango dissipates and it softens.

    Step 1.1: Add the grated raw mango and turmeric powder to the pan
    Step 1.2: Add the grated raw mango and turmeric powder to the pan
  6. Add the cooked rice to the pan along with salt. Mix gently to ensure the rice is evenly coated with the mango mixture.

    Step 1.1: Add the cooked rice to the pan along with salt
    Step 1.2: Add the cooked rice to the pan along with salt
  7. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

  8. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

    Step 1.1: Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed
  9. Serve the Mango Rice hot or cold, paired with papad or chips.

Tips & Tricks

  1. Choose firm, raw mangoes for a tangy flavor that complements the spices.

  2. Roasted plain peanuts can be used instead of raw peanuts.

  3. While fresh coconut adds the best flavor, you can substitute it with desiccated coconut if necessary.

  4. Adjust the number of chillies based on your spice preference.

FAQS

  1. Can I use frozen raw mangoes to make Mango Rice?

    Yes, you can use frozen raw mangoes for Mango Rice. Just make sure to thaw them completely before grating or chopping to achieve the best texture and flavor.

  2. What are some good side dishes to pair with Mango Rice?

    Mango Rice pairs wonderfully with South Indian sides like papad, chips, or even a simple cucumber raita. These accompaniments enhance the meal and provide a refreshing contrast to the tangy flavors of the rice.

  3. How can I make Mango Rice suitable for a gluten-free diet?

    Mango Rice is naturally gluten-free as it primarily consists of rice and vegetables. Just ensure that any additional ingredients, like spices or condiments, are also labeled gluten-free to maintain dietary compatibility.

  4. What substitutions can I make if I don't have chana dal or urad dal?

    If you don't have chana dal or urad dal, you can substitute them with other lentils like split yellow moong dal or even cooked chickpeas for added texture and protein. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

  5. How long can I store Mango Rice in the refrigerator?

    Mango Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to keep it moist and prevent it from drying out.

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Leena Kohli

(@leenakohli)

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