Savoury rice is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish. Made with a variety of vegetables, spices, and aromatic herbs, this flavorful rice dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making savoury rice at home, providing you with step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to achieve the perfect blend of flavors. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is easy to follow and will become a go-to favorite in your repertoire.
Ingredients
To make savoury rice, you will need the following ingredients:
1 cup of long-grain rice
2 cups of vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup of peas
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1 teaspoon of cumin powder
Salt and pepper to taste
A handful of fresh parsley or coriander, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch from the rice grains and prevents them from becoming sticky when cooked. Drain the rice well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant, approximately 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the diced carrot, bell pepper, and peas to the saucepan and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
4. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir well to combine with the vegetables.
5. Sprinkle the turmeric powder and cumin powder over the rice mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir again to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
6. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed.
7. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and become fluffy.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
8. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and transfer it to a serving dish.
9. Garnish the savoury rice with freshly chopped parsley or coriander for added freshness and color.
10. Serve the dish hot as a main course or as a side dish alongside your favorite protein or curry. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
– For extra flavor, you can sauté the rice in the pan after rinsing and draining it until it becomes slightly golden before adding the vegetables and spices.
– Feel free to customize the recipe by adding or substituting vegetables of your choice, such as corn, green beans, or mushrooms.
– If you prefer a spicier version, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or a diced fresh chili to the sautéed vegetables.
– To enhance the aroma of the dish, you can add a few whole spices, such as a cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, or star anise, to the vegetable broth while boiling.
Now that you have mastered the art of making savoury rice, feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make it your own signature dish. Whether it’s for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests, this versatile recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the delightful blend of spices and textures in every delicious bite!
