Carrot Rice

Here's a simple and flavorful recipe for carrot rice:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed and drained
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon oil or ghee
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise (adjust to taste)
  • 2 carrots, grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves, chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Rice:

    • Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain the rice and set it aside.
  2. Cook the Rice:

    • In a large pot or saucepan, heat the oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
    • Add the chopped onions and green chilies to the pot. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.
  3. Add Carrots:

    • Add the grated carrots to the pot and mix well with the onions and green chilies.
  4. Add Spices:

    • Sprinkle turmeric powder over the carrot mixture. Stir well to coat the carrots evenly with the turmeric.
  5. Add Rice and Water:

    • Add the rinsed and drained basmati rice to the pot. Stir gently to combine with the carrot mixture.
    • Pour in 2 cups of water and season with salt to taste. Stir briefly to combine.
  6. Cook:

    • Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the rice simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
  7. Fluff and Serve:

    • Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Let it sit, covered, for a few minutes.
    • Fluff the carrot rice with a fork to separate the grains. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
    • Garnish with chopped fresh coriander leaves, if desired.
  8. Serve:

    • Serve the carrot rice hot as a side dish with your favorite curry, dal, or yogurt.

Enjoy this aromatic and nutritious carrot rice as a flavorful addition to your meal! You can also add other vegetables like peas or bell peppers for variation.