Jeera Rice, also known as Cumin Rice, is a simple yet flavorful Indian side dish made with long-grain basmati rice and aromatic cumin seeds. It’s a perfect accompaniment to rich curries, dals, or any Indian main course. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you to make fluffy, fragrant jeera rice at home in no time.
Jeera Rice Recipe (Fluffy Cumin Rice)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
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Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
- 2 teaspoons cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 2-3 cloves
- 1 green chili (slit, optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
- Rinse the Rice:
Rinse 1 cup of basmati rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming sticky. - Soak the Rice:
Soak the rinsed rice in enough water for about 20 minutes. Soaking helps the rice cook faster and gives it a fluffy texture. - Drain the Rice:
After soaking, drain the rice completely using a colander and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Jeera Rice
- Heat Ghee in a Pan:
In a medium-sized pan or pot, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee or oil over medium heat. Ghee adds a rich flavor to the rice, but oil can be used for a vegan version. - Add Whole Spices:
Add 2 teaspoons of cumin seeds (jeera) to the hot ghee. Let the cumin seeds sizzle and turn golden brown, releasing their aroma. Be careful not to burn them, as they can become bitter. - Add Aromatics:
Add 1 bay leaf, 1-inch cinnamon stick, 2-3 cloves, and 1 slit green chili (if using) to the pan. Sauté for a few seconds until the spices release their fragrance. - Add Drained Rice:
Gently add the drained rice to the pan, stirring carefully to coat each grain with the spiced ghee. Sauté the rice for about 1-2 minutes until it turns slightly translucent. - Add Water and Salt:
Pour 2 cups of water into the pan and add 1 teaspoon of salt (or to taste). Stir gently to combine. - Bring to a Boil:
Increase the heat to high and bring the water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid. - Cook the Rice:
Let the rice simmer on low heat for about 12-15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked through. Do not open the lid while the rice is cooking to ensure even steaming. - Fluff the Rice:
Once cooked, turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for another 5 minutes. This resting time allows the steam to redistribute, making the rice fluffy. Gently fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Step 3: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with Coriander:
Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves on top of the rice for added freshness and color. - Serve Hot:
Serve your Jeera Rice hot with your favorite curry, dal, or any Indian main course. It’s a perfect accompaniment for dishes like Paneer Butter Masala, Chicken Curry, or Dal Tadka.
Expert Tips for Perfect Jeera Rice
- Use Good Quality Basmati Rice: The quality of rice plays a significant role in the texture and aroma of Jeera Rice. Long-grain basmati rice is ideal for this recipe.
- Rinse and Soak the Rice: Rinsing removes excess starch, and soaking helps the rice cook evenly without breaking the grains.
- Control the Heat: Be careful with the heat when sautéing cumin seeds; they should turn golden but not burn, as this affects the taste.
- Rest After Cooking: Let the rice rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps each grain to firm up and stay separate when served.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use brown rice instead of basmati rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require more water and a longer cooking time. Adjust the water-to-rice ratio according to the type of rice you use. - How do I prevent Jeera Rice from becoming mushy?
Ensure you rinse the rice thoroughly, soak it, and use the correct water-to-rice ratio. Also, avoid stirring the rice too much while cooking. - Can I make Jeera Rice in a pressure cooker?
Yes, you can make Jeera Rice in a pressure cooker. Use the same ingredients and cook for 1 whistle on medium heat, then let the pressure release naturally. - What can I serve with Jeera Rice?
Jeera Rice pairs well with almost any Indian curry or dal, such as Paneer Tikka Masala, Butter Chicken, Chana Masala, or Dal Fry. - Can I add vegetables to Jeera Rice?
Absolutely! Adding peas, carrots, or corn can enhance the flavor and make the dish more nutritious. Simply sauté the vegetables along with the spices. - Is Jeera Rice gluten-free?
Yes, Jeera Rice is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. - Can I use leftover rice to make Jeera Rice?
Yes, you can use leftover cooked rice. Simply temper the spices in ghee and toss the cooked rice until well mixed and heated through. - Can I use oil instead of ghee?
Yes, you can use any neutral oil if you prefer a vegan version. Ghee adds a richer flavor, but oil works well too. - How do I store and reheat Jeera Rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, sprinkle some water over the rice and microwave it, or reheat on the stove with a splash of water.
Serving Suggestions for Jeera Rice
- Dal Makhani: Rich and creamy dal is a classic pairing with Jeera Rice.
- Paneer Butter Masala: The mild flavor of Jeera Rice balances the rich and spicy paneer curry.
- Raita and Salad: A simple cucumber raita and salad can turn Jeera Rice into a light, wholesome meal.
If you have any questions not covered in this post and if you need help, leave a comment or mail us at blog@ramshiromanicaterers.in and we’ll help as soon as we can.
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