Masala Rice is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for any time of the day. Whether you have some leftover rice or you’re making it fresh, this recipe will transform simple rice into a flavorful, nutritious dish packed with vegetables and spices. Ready in just 15 minutes, Masala Rice is a quick and satisfying meal that will be loved by all ages. Pair it with curd or raita to make it even more wholesome. Let’s dive into the detailed recipe!
Ingredients for Masala Rice
For 4 Servings
- Rice: 2 cups (cooked)
- Tomatoes: 2 large
- Capsicum (Green Pepper): 2
- Peas: 1/3 cup + 2 teaspoons
- Garlic Paste: 2 teaspoons
- Asafoetida: 1/2 teaspoon
- Cumin Seeds: 1/2 teaspoon
- Red Chilli Powder: 2 teaspoons
- Garam Masala Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Cashews (Roasted): 4 tablespoons
- Onions: 2 medium
- Carrots: 2
- Green Beans: 12
- Ginger Paste: 2 teaspoons
- Rice Bran Oil: 4 tablespoons
- Mustard Seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric: 1/2 teaspoon
- Coriander Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: As required
Step-by-Step Preparation
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Step 1: Chop the Vegetables:
Begin by chopping all the vegetables: onions, tomatoes, capsicum, carrots, and green beans. Set them aside. This ensures you have everything ready for a quick and smooth cooking process.
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Step 2: Prepare the Masala:
Heat rice bran oil in a pan. Add asafoetida, cumin seeds, and mustard seeds. Allow them to splutter for about a minute. Next, add chopped onions along with ginger and garlic paste. Sauté the mixture for a minute until the onions turn translucent. Now, add the chopped tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Mix well and cook until the tomatoes become mushy, releasing their juices to form a base for the masala.
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Step 3: Add Vegetables and Spices:
Add the chopped carrots, capsicum, peas, and green beans to the pan. Sprinkle in turmeric, red chilli powder, and coriander powder. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices. Cover the pan with a lid and let the vegetables cook for about five minutes, allowing them to soften and absorb the flavors.
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Step 4: Incorporate the Rice:
Gently add the cooked rice to the pan. Blend carefully to prevent crushing the rice grains. Add garam masala and give a final mix to ensure all the ingredients are well combined. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for another two minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Step 5: Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, garnish the Masala Rice with roasted cashews for a delightful crunch. Serve hot with a side of curd or raita to complement the spiciness of the dish.
Tips for the Perfect Masala Rice
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Enhance with Whole Spices:
For an extra layer of flavor, add whole spices like cinnamon, bay leaf, peppercorns, and cardamom at the beginning. These spices infuse the rice with a rich, aromatic taste that elevates the dish.
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Customize with Your Favorite Vegetables:
Please feel free to change or add vegetables according to your tastes. Options like cauliflower, bell peppers, or zucchini can make the dish even more nutritious and flavorful.
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Maintaining the Rice Texture:
When mixing the rice with the masala, do so gently to prevent breaking the grains. This helps in maintaining the integrity of the dish, providing a pleasant texture in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
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With Curd or Raita:
Masala Rice pairs wonderfully with curd or raita, balancing the spices with a cool and creamy contrast. Try cucumber raita, boondi raita, or simply plain curd.
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As a Side Dish:
Serve Masala Rice alongside your favorite curry or dal. It complements a variety of Indian dishes, adding a flavorful component to your meal.
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As a Standalone Dish:
Enjoy Masala Rice on its own as a quick and satisfying meal. The blend of vegetables and spices makes it a complete dish that is both nutritious and delicious.
Nutritional Information
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Caloric Content:
A serving of Masala Rice typically contains around 300-350 calories, depending on the quantity of oil and nuts used. It is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
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Health Benefits:
Vegetables: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making the dish nutritious.
Spices: Known for their antioxidant properties and various health benefits.
Nuts: Add healthy fats and protein to the dish.
Conclusion
Masala Rice is a versatile and flavorful dish that brings together the goodness of vegetables and the aromatic richness of Indian spices. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for utilizing leftover rice or making a fresh batch. This dish is sure to become a favorite in your household, offering a comforting and satisfying meal any time of the day. Try this recipe, and don’t forget to rate it and share your experience!
