Make this Indian Vegetable Rice recipe for a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines basmati rice with an assortment of colorful vegetables and fragrant spices. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The veggies add a burst of freshness and nutrition to the rice, while the spices create a symphony of flavors. Serve it as a main course or as a side dish with your favorite curry or grilled meat. Give this recipe a try and savor the taste of India!
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Directions
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chili (if using). Saute until the onion turns golden brown.
- Add the diced carrot, bell pepper, and frozen peas. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
- Add the soaked and drained basmati rice to the pot. Stir well to combine with the vegetables.
- Add the ground turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, red chili powder, and salt. Stir to coat the rice and vegetables with the spices.
- Pour 2 cups of water into the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the rice cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
- Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve the Indian Vegetable Rice hot as a main course or as a side dish with your favorite curry or grilled meat.
Interesting Facts
Basmati rice, known as the 'King of Rice,' is a fragrant long-grain rice popular in Indian cuisine.
Spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder not only add flavor to the dish but also offer numerous health benefits, thanks to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Indian cuisine is renowned for its vibrant and diverse vegetarian dishes, such as this Vegetable Rice recipe.
Cilantro, also known as coriander leaves, adds a fresh and citrusy flavor to the dish, enhancing its taste and aroma.