Total cooking time | 35 minutes |
Level | easy |
Ghee rice is a delicious and aromatic Indian rice dish that is flavored with ghee (clarified butter) and various spices. It's a popular dish in South Indian and North Indian cuisines and is often served on special occasions or as part of festive meals. The dish is known for its rich and indulgent flavors.
Ghee rice, known as "Neychoru" in Malayalam and "Ghee Bhat" in Hindi, is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish that holds a special place in South Asian cuisine, particularly in India. Originating from the culinary traditions of Kerala and Karnataka, ghee rice is a staple that combines the rich, nutty flavor of ghee (clarified butter) with the aromatic basmati rice, creating a simple yet luxurious dish.
Ingredients:
Rice: The most commonly used rice for ghee rice is basmati, known for its long grains and aromatic properties. Some regions might use local varieties, but basmati remains the favorite for its fragrance and texture.
Ghee: Clarified butter, or ghee, is the star ingredient. It imparts a rich, nutty flavor and a distinctive aroma that sets ghee rice apart from other rice dishes.
Spices: Whole spices like cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and bay leaves are essential. They infuse the rice with a warm, aromatic flavor.
Nuts and Raisins: Cashews and raisins are often added for texture and a hint of sweetness.
Aromatics: Onions, green chilies, garlic, and ginger add depth and complexity to the dish.
Herbs: Fresh coriander and mint leaves are often used as garnishes to add freshness and color.
Cultural Significance and Variations
Ghee rice is more than just a comfort food; it’s a dish often reserved for special occasions and festive meals. It’s commonly served during weddings, religious festivals, and family gatherings in South India. Its mild flavor makes it a versatile accompaniment to a variety of curries, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian.
In different regions, ghee rice can have slight variations. For instance, in Karnataka, it might include coconut milk for added richness, while in Kerala, it’s often paired with a spicy Malabar chicken curry. In some households, additional vegetables like peas or carrots are added for color and nutrition.
Nutritional Profile
Ghee rice, while rich and flavorful, is also calorically dense due to the ghee. However, ghee has been traditionally valued for its health benefits in moderation. It’s believed to aid digestion, improve immunity, and provide essential fatty acids. The dish is also gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
Ghee rice is a testament to the simplicity and elegance of South Asian cuisine. With its aromatic spices, rich ghee, and fluffy basmati rice, it encapsulates the essence of Indian culinary traditions. Whether served on a festive table or enjoyed as a comforting meal at home, ghee rice continues to be a beloved dish, celebrated for its taste, texture, and cultural significance.
Ingredients
1.Basmati Rice or Jeerakasala Rice – 1 cup
2.Cinnamon – 2 small
3.Cardamom – 2
4.Cloves – 3
5.Fennel seed – 1/4 teaspoon
6.Salt – as per taste
7.Cashewnut – 8
8.Raisins – 15
9.Ghee – 2 teaspoon
Method of preparation
1.Take a pressure cooker and add 1 teaspoon of oil and ghee
2.Add all the spices
3.Add 1 chopped onion and sauté well
4.Add Basmati Rice(Rice should be washed and soaked for 20 minutes and water needs to be drained)
5.Saute the rice for 2 minutes
6.Add 1.5 to 2 cups of water and little salt to it
7.Close the lid of the Pressure cooker and wait for 1 steam
8.Take a pan and add 1 teaspoon of Ghee and oil
9.Roast Cashews, Raisins and remaining 2 chopped onions
10.Add a portion of Roasted cashews ,raisins and onion to the rice once it gets boiled
11.Transfer the Rice to a serving bowl
12. You can add additional ghee to the boiled rice if needed
13. You can use the remaining roasted cashews, raisins and onion to garnish our rice
14. Add coriander leaves to garnish.