From leftovers: The magic hidden in a bowl of rice

There's something comforting about a bowl of rice — soft, versatile, and deeply rooted in Indian kitchens.

- TDG NETWORK

But often, it’s also the most overlooked. After a hearty meal, the leftover rice sitting quietly in the fridge rarely gets the spotlight it deserves. Yet, with a little imagination, those humble grains can transform into an entirely new meal — one that's delicious, sustainable, and full of soul.

In Indian households, nothing is truly wasted — and leftover rice is proof of that culinary wisdom. What's called pakhala bhat in Odisha, pazhaya sadam in Tamil Nadu, orfermented ricein Bengal, is a staple breakfast dish across regions. The rice is soaked overnight in water, then eaten the next morning with curd, salt, and a dash of pickle. It's refreshing, probiotic-rich, and a comforting nod to tradition.