Jeera rice is a popular Indian side dish that is easy to make and adds a fragrant and flavorful touch to any meal. This dish is made by cooking basmati rice with cumin seeds and other aromatic spices. It is a delicious accompaniment to any curry or dal, and is also great on its own as a light and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Here is what you will need to make jeera rice for four servings:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon ghee
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 cloves
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make delicious jeera rice:
- Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh sieve and soak it in water for 15 minutes.
- In a medium pot, heat the ghee over medium-high heat. Add the cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Fry for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Drain the rice and add it to the pot. Stir to coat the rice with the spices and ghee. Add the salt and water and stir to combine.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and discard the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and cloves before serving.
Variations
Jeera rice is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations to try:
- Add vegetables: Add finely chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers to the rice before cooking for a colorful and nutritious twist.
- Make it spicy: Add chopped green chilies or red chili powder to the rice for a spicy kick.
- Make it vegan: Use coconut oil or vegetable oil instead of ghee to make this dish vegan-friendly.
- Add nuts: Toasted cashews, almonds, or pistachios can add a crunchy texture to the rice and elevate its flavor.
Conclusion
Jeera rice is a simple and delicious side dish that is perfect for any Indian meal. With its fragrant spices and fluffy texture, it is sure to become a favorite in your household. Try this recipe today and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!
FAQ
What is Jeera Rice?
Jeera Rice is an Indian dish made with basmati rice, cumin seeds, and a few spices.
What is the best type of rice to use for Jeera Rice?
Basmati rice is the best type of rice to use for Jeera Rice, as it has a distinct aroma and flavor that complements the cumin seeds and other spices.
Can I make Jeera Rice in a rice cooker?
Yes, you can make Jeera Rice in a rice cooker. Simply add the rice, water, cumin seeds, and spices to the rice cooker and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Should I rinse the rice before cooking it for Jeera Rice?
Yes, you should rinse the rice before cooking it for Jeera Rice. This helps to remove any excess starch and ensures that the rice cooks evenly.
Can I add vegetables to Jeera Rice?
Yes, you can add vegetables such as peas, carrots, and onions to Jeera Rice. Simply sauté the vegetables in a pan before adding them to the rice.
How long does it take to cook Jeera Rice?
It takes about 20-25 minutes to cook Jeera Rice on the stovetop. However, cooking time may vary depending on the type of rice and the heat level.
Can I make Jeera Rice in advance?
Yes, you can make Jeera Rice in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
What can I serve with Jeera Rice?
Jeera Rice pairs well with a variety of Indian dishes such as chicken curry, lamb curry, or chana masala.
Can I use ground cumin instead of cumin seeds?
Yes, you can use ground cumin instead of cumin seeds for Jeera Rice. However, the flavor may not be as intense as using whole cumin seeds.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of water to cook the rice for Jeera Rice?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of water to cook the rice for Jeera Rice. This will add more flavor to the dish.
