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Quick Jeera Rice (Cumin Rice) Recipe

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Quick Jeera Rice (Cumin Rice) is a simple and authentic Indian staple made with fragrant basmati rice, cumin seeds, and aromatic spices. Ready in just 30 minutes, this flavorful side dish is perfect for complementing any Indian meal or enjoyed on its own.

Ingredients

Rice and Water

  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 2 cups water

Spices and Flavorings

  • ½ tablespoon ghee, or 1 tablespoon avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (add more for stronger fragrance)
  • 1 green chili pepper, finely chopped (preferably Thai green chili, or Serrano as substitute)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (optional, especially if using salted ghee)
  • 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. Rinse and Soak Rice: Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly in cold water at least three times until the water runs mostly clear. Cover the rinsed rice with fresh water and soak for 20 to 30 minutes. Drain just before cooking.
  2. Heat Ghee and Toast Cumin: With about 5 minutes left on soaking, heat ghee or avocado oil in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Add cumin seeds and cook for about 30 seconds until they become aromatic and start sizzling.
  3. Add Green Chili: Add the finely chopped green chili to the pan and stir for about 20 seconds, taking care not to let it brown or burn to keep the flavors fresh.
  4. Toast Rice: Drain the soaked rice and gently add it to the saucepan. Stir carefully to coat the rice grains with the spiced oil and toast for 1 to 2 minutes, ensuring the grains do not break or stick to the pan.
  5. Add Water and Salt, Boil: Pour in 2 cups of water and add salt if using. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
  6. Simmer Rice: Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 4 to 6 minutes. Check at 4 minutes to see if the water is mostly absorbed and the rice is tender.
  7. Finish Cooking: If the rice is tender and water absorbed, turn off the heat and let the rice sit uncovered for 2 minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate and rice to steam gently.
  8. Fluff and Garnish: Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top and serve hot as a flavorful side dish.

Notes

  • Soaking the basmati rice helps achieve fluffy, separate grains and reduces cooking time.
  • Use ghee for authentic flavor; avocado oil is a good plant-based substitute.
  • Adjust green chili quantity to control the heat level.
  • Salt can be omitted if using salted ghee or added to taste.
  • Serving jeera rice with Indian dals or curries creates a balanced meal.

Find it online: https://yumntasty.com/quick-jeera-rice-cumin-rice-recipe/