Introduction:
Jeera rice, also known as cumin rice, is a popular and aromatic Indian dish that complements a wide range of main courses. The fragrant basmati rice combined with the earthy flavor of cumin seeds creates a delightful side dish that's easy to prepare. In this article, we'll guide you through the step-by-step process of making delicious jeera rice at home.
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Ingredients:
1 cup basmati rice
1.5 cups water
2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
1 tablespoon cumin seeds
1-2 green chilies, finely chopped
4-5 whole black peppercorns
2-3 green cardamom pods
2-3 cloves
1-inch cinnamon stick
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Rinse the Rice:
Start by rinsing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky during cooking.
Soak the Rice:
Soak the rinsed rice in water for about 20-30 minutes. This step ensures that the rice cooks evenly and becomes fluffy.
Prepare the Spices:
In a small bowl, combine the cumin seeds, black peppercorns, cardamom pods, cloves, and cinnamon stick. This spice blend will infuse the rice with rich flavors.
Cooking the Jeera Rice:
In a heavy-bottomed pan or a rice cooker, heat the ghee over medium heat.
Add the chopped green chilies to the hot ghee and sauté for a minute until they release their aroma.
Add the spice blend and sauté for another minute until the cumin seeds start to splutter.
Add the Rice:
Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pan. Gently stir the rice to coat it with the aromatic ghee and spices.
Cooking Process:
Pour in the water and add salt to taste. Stir well.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and each grain is separate.
Fluff and Garnish:
Once the rice is cooked, use a fork to fluff it gently. This helps separate the grains.
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves, if desired, for an extra burst of flavor and color.
Serve Hot:
Jeera rice pairs well with various Indian dishes such as dal, curry, or grilled vegetables. Serve it hot and enjoy the fragrant and flavorful experience.
Conclusion:
Jeera rice is a versatile and easy-to-make side dish that elevates any Indian meal. By following this simple recipe, you can recreate this classic dish at home and impress your family and friends with the delicious combination of basmati rice and aromatic cumin seeds. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference and savor the rich flavors of jeera rice with your favorite main courses. Happy cooking!
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