Are you ready to elevate your cooking game with a simple yet delicious dish?
If you’ve ever found yourself staring blankly at your kitchen pantry, unsure of what to make for a satisfying meal, this recipe is the solution you’ve been searching for.
With just a handful of basic ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be whipping up a mouthwatering pot of savoury rice in no time.
Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned home cook looking for a quick and tasty meal idea, this recipe has got you covered.
Ingredients
To start, you’ll need the following ingredients.
This recipe is flexible, so feel free to adjust the vegetables based on availability and personal preference.
- 2 cups of long-grain white rice
- 4 cups of water or vegetable broth (for more flavour)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 carrot, peeled and grated
- 1 cup of frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon of curry powder (mild or hot, depending on your preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh coriander (dhania) for garnish (optional)
Equipment Needed
- Large frying pan or wok with a lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chopping board and knife
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparing the Rice
- Rinse the Rice: Begin by thoroughly rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
- Cook the Rice: In a medium pot, bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
Preparing the Vegetables
- Sauté the Onions: Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and slightly golden.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic to the onions, stirring for about 30 seconds. Then, sprinkle in the turmeric and curry powder, stirring constantly to prevent the spices from burning.
- Mix in the Vegetables: Add the diced bell peppers and grated carrot to the pan, stirring well to combine with the spices. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft but still vibrant.
- Incorporate the Peas: Add the frozen peas to the pan, stirring them through the other vegetables. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the peas are heated through.
Combining the Rice and Vegetables
- Combine Rice with Vegetables: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the cooked rice to the frying pan. Gently fold the rice into the vegetable mixture, ensuring the spices evenly coat the rice.
- Season: Taste the rice and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a bit more heat, you can add an extra pinch of curry powder.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh coriander over the rice before serving to add a burst of flavour and colour.
Serving Suggestions
Savoury rice can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish to complement a variety of main courses such as grilled chicken, fish, or a selection of roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.
Tips for Success
- Rice Consistency: To avoid mushy rice, make sure to rinse it thoroughly before cooking and use the correct water-to-rice ratio.
- Vegetable Variety: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like corn, green beans, or even small broccoli florets.
- Spice Levels: Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. You can also add a dash of soy sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavour.
Has this guide helped you in making your own savoury rice? Do you feel more confident in the kitchen?
We’d love to hear about your cooking experience and any variations you tried with this recipe.
Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!