Easy Recipes with Mapillai Samba Rice

4 mins read

Last updated : 29-09-2025

What is Mapillai Samba Rice?

Mapillai Samba Rice is a traditional red rice variety cultivated in Tamil Nadu. Unlike polished white rice, it retains its outer bran layer, giving it a reddish-brown hue and a slightly chewy texture.

This rice variety is:

• Naturally unpolished and whole grain
• High in fiber and nutrients
• Hearty and filling, making it ideal for everyday meals

It is widely used to prepare idlis, dosas, kanji (porridge), and even biryanis, offering both nutrition and taste.

Nutritional Value of Mapillai Samba Rice

One of the biggest reasons health-conscious consumers are switching to Mapillai Samba Rice is its nutritional density. Here’s an approximate breakdown per 100g of uncooked rice:

• Nutrient Value Benefits
• Calories 360 kcal Provides long-lasting energy
• Protein 7–8 g Helps muscle repair and strength
• Fiber 3–4 g Improves digestion & gut health
• Iron High Prevents anemia, boosts stamina
• Carbohydrates 75 g Complex carbs for slow energy release
• Antioxidants (Anthocyanins) Rich Fights inflammation & free radicals

This makes it far superior to white rice, which loses most nutrients during polishing.

How to Cook Mapillai Samba Rice (Step-by-Step Guide)

Cooking Mapillai Samba rice is slightly different from white rice since it is unpolished and denser.

Preparation

• Wash the rice thoroughly 2–3 times.
• Soak for at least 2–3 hours (optional, but helps soften the grains).

Cooking Methods:

• Pressure Cooker Method

1. Ratio: 1 cup rice : 3 cups water
2. Cook for 4–5 whistles on medium flame.
3. Allow pressure to release naturally

• Pot Method

1. Ratio: 1 cup rice : 4 cups water
2. Bring water to boil, add rice, and simmer on low flame.
3. Cook for 40–45 minutes until tender.

Easy Recipes with Mapillai Samba Rice

Mapillai Samba Idli Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Mapillai Samba rice (soaked for 6–8 hours)
• 1 cup urad dal (soaked for 4 hours)
• Salt (to taste)

Method

• Grind soaked Mapillai Samba rice and urad dal separately into a smooth batter.
• Mix both, add salt, and let it ferment overnight (8–10 hours).
• Grease idli plates, pour the batter, and steam for 10–12 minutes.
• Serve hot with coconut chutney or sambar.

Why it’s healthy: These idlis are more nutritious than regular ones, high in fiber and iron.

Mapillai Samba Porridge (Kanji) Recipe

Ingredients:

1. ½ cup Mapillai Samba Rice
2. 3 cups water
3. A pinch of salt
4. Optional: buttermilk or jaggery for taste

Method

1. Wash and soak rice for 2–3 hours.
2. Cook in a pressure cooker with 3 cups of water for 5–6 whistles.
3. Mash slightly and let it cool.
4. For savory porridge: add buttermilk and salt.
5. For sweet porridge: add jaggery syrup and mix well.

Why it’s healthy: A traditional energy-boosting breakfast, ideal for kids, elderly, and those recovering from illness.

Mapillai Samba Dosa Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Mapillai Samba rice
• ½ cup urad dal
• 2 tbsp fenugreek seeds
• Salt (to taste)

Method:

1. Soak rice, dal, and fenugreek seeds for 6 hours.
2. Grind into a smooth batter and ferment overnight.
3. Heat a dosa pan, spread the batter thin, and drizzle ghee or oil.
4. Serve with chutney or podi.

Why it’s healthy: A fiber-rich dosa that keeps you full longer and helps in weight management.

Mapillai Samba Biryani

Cook soaked Mapillai Samba rice with whole spices, sautéed onions, ginger-garlic paste, vegetables or meat, and biryani masala. The rice’s earthy flavor blends beautifully with spices.

Why Add Mapillai Samba to Recipes?

Including Mapillai Samba Rice in everyday dishes like idli, dosa, kanji, and biryani ensures you get its iron, fiber, and antioxidant benefits without changing your food habits drastically.