Introduction
Beetroot rice is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the comforting texture of rice. This versatile recipe can be customized with various spices and vegetables to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a unique addition to your lunch menu, beetroot rice offers a delightful twist to traditional rice dishes.
Beetroot Rice Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1 medium beetroot, peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green chili, slit lengthwise
- 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon oil or ghee
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Rinse and Soak Rice: Wash the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 20-30 minutes, then drain.
- Prepare Tempering: In a large pan or pressure cooker, heat oil or ghee over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Once they splutter, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and green chili to the pan. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the grated beetroot and green peas. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle turmeric powder and garam masala over the vegetables. Mix well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
- Add Rice: Add the drained rice to the pan, stirring gently to combine with the spiced vegetables.
- Cook Rice: Pour in 2 cups of water and add salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed. If using a pressure cooker, cook for one whistle on medium heat and then let the pressure release naturally.
- Garnish and Serve: Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
FAQs:
- Can I use brown rice instead of basmati?Yes, you can substitute brown rice for basmati. However, brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more water. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?Absolutely! You can include vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or potatoes. Just chop them into small pieces and sauté them along with the beetroot.
- Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?Yes, beetroot rice stores well in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Can I make this recipe vegan?Yes, simply use oil instead of ghee to make the dish vegan-friendly.
- What can I serve with beetroot rice?Beetroot rice pairs well with yogurt-based side dishes like raita, pickles, or a simple cucumber salad.
Beetroot rice is a delightful and healthy addition to your meal repertoire. Beetroot Recipes For Rice Its vibrant color and rich flavor make it a favorite among both children and adults. By following this simple recipe, you can enjoy a nutritious and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
