Veppam Poo Sadam | Neem Flower Rice | Gluten Free Recipe

Hi Supermoms,

It is the season of 'Neem Flowers'.  My SIL's home has a huge Neem Tree. During my recent visit to her place, I was simply thrilled to see so much of neem flowers fallen all over her garden and even inside her Kitchen balcony forming a carpet. I did not miss the opportunity and collected neem flowers that will last me at least for a year. 

Do you know that neem flowers do not taste bitter if you cook the ones that have dried and fallen themselves? A good way to collect them is to place a clean towel or newspaper below the tree . 

I have earlier shared Veppam Poo Rasam Recipe and Ugadi Pachadi recipes , and today I am sharing a tasty and simple recipe using neem flowers. 

Veppam Poo Sadam | Neem Flower Rice:

Preparation time : 5 minutes

Cooking time : 7-8 minutes

Serves : 4

1 cup = 250 ml cup

Ingredients :

2 cups rice ( cooked)

For tempering :

1 tablespoon ghee/clarified butter ( for Vegan option, use sesame oil)

1/4 cup neem flowers 

10 shallots/sambar onions ( finely chopped, optional)

1 teaspoon cumin seeds/jeera( crushed using mortar and pestle)

1 teaspoon peppercorns ( crushed using mortar and pestle)

1/8 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 sprig curry leaves (torn roughly)

salt to taste

Method :

1. Heat a kadai/pan with ghee and add jeera, peppercorns and curry leaves and fry for few seconds. 

2. Next, add the neem flowers and fry for 30 seconds. 

3. Add turmeric powder, salt  and switch off.

4. Add the cooked rice and mix well.

Your delicious and healthy Neem Flower Rice/ Veppam Poo Sadam is ready. You can make a small portion of this rice and serve it as the first course during meals. 

Happy Cooking !

With love,

Masterchefmom