Ghee Rice Recipe: How to Make This Aromatic Iconically Indian Dish At Home

Ghee rice is often considered a comfort food in many Indian households. It's simple preparation and comforting taste make it a popular choice for family meals and special occasions. Made with fragrant basmati rice and ghee, this dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a special celebration. In this article, we'll tell you about an easy Ghee Rice recipe that you can try at home. This easy and delicious recipe is by Chef Kunal Kapur.

Ghee Rice

Ghee rice is a classic Indian dish that is loved for its aromatic flavours and simplicity. The use of ghee (clarified butter) imparts a rich, nutty flavour to the rice, making it a delightful treat. Ghee enhances the taste of the rice, giving it a unique and savoury depth. Ghee rice is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or as a side dish. It pairs well with a variety of Indian curries, dals, and a bowl of curd. Here’s how to make Ghee Rice at home:

How To Make Ghee Rice:

1. Wash the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain it thoroughly.

2. Heat a large skillet or deep bottomed pan over medium heat and add some ghee. Then add cashews and raisins and let them cook until they turn a little golden brown. Once down, set it aside.

3. Now in the same ghee add the star anise, cloves, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, bay leaf, cumin seeds, and fennel seeds. Saute for about a minute until fragrant. Add the thinly sliced onion to the pan and cook until golden brown, stirring occasionally. This usually takes around 5-7 minutes.

4. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until the raw smell disappears.

5. Add the drained rice to the pan and gently toss it with the onion and spice mixture until the rice is well coated with ghee. Allow the rice to toast for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Pour in the water and season with salt according to your taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked through.

7. Once the rice is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the steam to finish cooking the rice. Then, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains.

8. Drizzle some ghee over the cooked rice and gently mix it in to enhance the flavour and texture.

9. Transfer the ghee rice to a serving platter, and garnish with fresh coriander leaves and nuts.

10. Serve it hot alongside your favourite curry or a bowl of yoghurt.

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