Yoga Life
Horsegram Rice (Kollu Sadam)
A simple, nourishing one-pot horsegram rice from the Wholesome Living Through Food series — a warming, protein-rich meal traditionally valued for digestion.
Horsegram rice (kollu sadam) is a simple, nourishing one-pot meal that pairs protein-rich horsegram with rice and warming spices. Horsegram is prized in Indian home cooking and Ayurveda as a warming, drying legume, making this a comforting dish traditionally used to support digestion and balance — especially for Kapha types.
Ingredients
- ½ cup (125 ml) horsegram, soaked 8 hours or overnight
- 1 cup (250 ml) raw rice, washed and soaked 30 minutes
- 1 tbsp oil and 1 tbsp ghee
- 1 tsp each chana dal, mustard seeds, cumin seeds and fennel seeds
- 2 onions
- 10 garlic cloves, lightly pounded
- 3 green chillies
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp red chilli powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 2 tsp coriander powder
- A pinch of hing (optional, aids digestion)
- 3 tomatoes
- Curry leaves and coriander
- 3 cups water
Method
- 1
Heat the oil and ghee in a pressure cooker and temper the chana dal, mustard, cumin and fennel until fragrant.
- 2
Add the onions, garlic and green chillies and sauté until soft.
- 3
Stir in the spices, then the chopped tomatoes, and cook until mushy.
- 4
Add the soaked horsegram and coat well, then the curry leaves and coriander.
- 5
Pour in 3 cups of water, bring to a rolling boil, then add the soaked rice.
- 6
Pressure-cook for about 2 whistles on medium flame and let the pressure release naturally.
- 7
Fluff and serve hot.
Why it's nourishing
Horsegram is a warming, protein- and fibre-rich legume that Ayurveda associates with kindling digestion and supporting Kapha balance. Cooked with rice and gentle spices, it makes a wholesome, satisfying meal for mindful, balanced eating.
More recipes from Hema Subramanian and The Home Cooking Show →
Frequently asked questions
- Is horsegram good for digestion?
- Ayurveda considers horsegram a warming, drying legume that supports digestion; soaking it well before cooking makes it easier on the stomach.
- Do I have to soak the horsegram?
- Yes — soak it at least 8 hours or overnight. It improves digestion and helps it cook evenly with the rice.
References
- Bhagavad Gita 17.8-10 — sattvic food that nourishes life, strength and health · Classical text — The yogic view that wholesome, simple food supports a clear mind and healthy body.