Rice is a staple food in many Indian households, and there are countless ways to prepare it. From flavorful pilafs to aromatic biryanis, Indian rice dishes offer a world of possibilities for home cooks. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious Indian rice recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From classic jeera rice to innovative curries, these recipes showcase the diversity and complexity of Indian cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a simple side dish or a main course, there’s something on this list for everyone. So let’s get started and explore the wonderful world of Indian rice recipes!
Jeera Rice
A flavorful and aromatic Indian-style rice dish, Jeera Rice is a perfect accompaniment to many popular curries and main courses. This simple recipe requires just a few basic ingredients and some quick cooking time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup long-grain basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 10-15 seconds.
3. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with oil and mix with the cumin seeds.
4. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Vegetable Pulao
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish packed with a medley of colorful vegetables, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, corn, bell peppers)
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add minced garlic and grated carrot; sauté for 2 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables, cumin powder, and salt; stir well.
4. Add basmati rice and water to the saucepan; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is cooked and fluffy.
6. Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Rice
Brighten up your meal with a burst of citrus flavor! This simple and flavorful recipe combines the warmth of cooked rice with the zesty tang of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until lightly toasted.
4. Add the water and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in lemon juice and salt.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato Rice
This classic Indian dish is a staple of many households, and for good reason – it’s simple, flavorful, and pairs well with a variety of main courses. This recipe makes a delicious side dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes.
2. Drain and cook the rice according to package instructions or until tender.
3. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
5. Combine the cooked rice with the tomato mixture. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Rice
A flavorful and aromatic side dish, coconut rice is a perfect accompaniment to many Caribbean and Southeast Asian-inspired dishes. This simple recipe yields a creamy and deliciously scented rice dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the grated ginger and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the coconut milk, water, and salt to the saucepan. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Biryani
Experience the rich flavors of Indian cuisine with this aromatic and flavorful chicken biryani recipe, infused with saffron and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until lightly browned.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, breaking into smaller pieces if needed.
3. Add ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add rice, water, and saffron mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Curd Rice
A popular South Indian dish, Curd Rice is a simple and comforting meal that combines the creaminess of yogurt with the warmth of cooked rice. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup curd (yogurt)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice and salt. Mix well to distribute the salt evenly.
2. Add the curd to the rice mixture and mix until the rice is well coated with the yogurt.
3. Heat the ghee or oil in a small pan over medium heat.
4. Pour the hot ghee or oil over the rice-curd mixture and mix well.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Peas Pulao
A classic Indian dish, Peas Pulao is a flavorful and aromatic rice recipe infused with the sweetness of peas and spices. This easy-to-make pulao is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh peas (or frozen)
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and cooked peas. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add coriander powder, salt, and drained rice to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
5. Add 2 cups of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ghee Rice
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of Indian-inspired meals. This recipe uses ghee, a type of clarified butter, to add a rich and nutty flavor to the rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup long-grain basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons ghee
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the ghee in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat the rice with the ghee.
4. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Masala Khichdi
Khichdi is a popular Indian dish that’s often served as a comfort food or a simple meal. This version, flavored with a blend of aromatic spices, is perfect for a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the rice and lentils to the saucepan. Stir well to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the khichdi is cooked.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tamarind Rice
This flavorful and aromatic rice dish is a staple in many Indian households. With the sweet and sour taste of tamarind, this recipe adds a unique twist to traditional basmati rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup tamarind paste
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain the water and set the rice aside.
2. In a large saucepan, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat. Add the tamarind paste and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add 2 cups of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the saucepan. Stir well to combine with the tamarind mixture.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Saffron Rice
This classic Middle Eastern dish is a staple at many special occasions. With the subtle earthy flavor of saffron, this aromatic rice pairs perfectly with grilled meats, vegetables, or as a side to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine with water in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
3. In a small bowl, mix together saffron and hot water. Add olive oil, salt, and the soaked saffron mixture to the cooked rice. Fluff with a fork to combine.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spinach Rice
This simple yet flavorful side dish is a great way to add some green to your plate. With the natural sweetness of spinach and the creaminess of butter, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
3. While the rice is cooking, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork to separate the grains. Stir in the melted butter and spinach mixture. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Egg Fried Rice
A staple Chinese dish, egg fried rice is a simple and satisfying meal that can be made with leftover rice and a few basic ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Push the onion aside and add the garlic; cook for 30 seconds.
4. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Add soy sauce to taste and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mushroom Rice
Elevate your meal with this simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Once rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in mushroom mixture, combining well.
6. If desired, sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top and return to low heat until melted.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paneer Pulao
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish made with paneer (Indian cheese), spices, and herbs, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the richness of paneer with the warmth of saffron and cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 1 cup paneer cubes
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
2. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add paneer cubes and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they start to brown.
4. Add basmati rice and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
5. Fluff the pulao with a fork, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Curry Leaf Rice
This recipe combines the warm, aromatic flavors of curry leaves with the comfort of fluffy rice. Perfect as a side dish or a main course, Curry Leaf Rice is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 4-6 curry leaves
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain the water and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the curry leaves and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the drained rice to the saucepan and stir to combine with the curry leaves and oil.
4. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Rice
This simple garlic rice recipe is a classic combination that pairs well with most main courses. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful and aromatic side dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the garlic oil mixture.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted.
5. Add 2 cups of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cashew Rice
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish infused with the nutty taste of cashews, perfect as a side or main course. This simple recipe is sure to delight your senses!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup roasted cashews, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine with water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
3. Heat oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in chopped cashews and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
6. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the cashew mixture. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Potato Rice
This simple recipe combines fluffy rice with creamy mashed potatoes, perfect as a side dish or main course. With only a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying this comforting combination in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Boil the diced potatoes until tender, then drain and mash with butter and salt to taste.
3. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains.
4. Mix the mashed potatoes into the cooked rice, stirring until well combined.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Rice: 18-20 minutes
– Potatoes: 15-18 minutes
– Total: 33-38 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors and aromas of India with these 20 mouthwatering rice recipes. From classic dishes like Jeera Rice and Vegetable Pulao to innovative creations like Lemon Rice and Curry Leaf Rice, this collection has something for every taste bud. Whether you’re a fan of spicy dishes or sweet treats, these flavorful recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. With simple instructions and accessible ingredients, cooking Indian rice has never been easier. Get ready to delight your senses with the bold flavors of India’s most beloved cuisine!
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