Dish Name: Jeera Chaul
Description: A delightful fusion of cumin and peas with fluffy basmati rice, Jeera Chaul is a simple yet flavorful dish that makes for a perfect accompaniment to any meal or can be enjoyed on its own.
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Element | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Servings | 4 |
| Dietary Info | Vegetarian |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oil | 1 tbsp |
| Cumin Seeds | 1 tsp |
| Small Onion, finely sliced | 1 |
| Basmati Rice | 200g / 1 mug |
| Frozen Peas | 50g |
| Cold Water | 500ml / 2 mugs |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Rice: Begin by washing the basmati rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. To do this, place the rice in a bowl, cover it with water, and gently swirl your hand through it. Carefully pour out the cloudy water and refill with cold water, repeating the process until the water is clear. Once done, strain the rice using a sieve and set it aside.
-
-
Cook the Onions: In a wide-based pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the finely sliced onion and sauté until it turns translucent, allowing the flavors to develop and the onions to soften.
-
Infuse with Cumin: Sprinkle in the whole cumin seeds. As they begin to sizzle and release their aromatic fragrance, add the frozen peas, stirring them in to coat with the oil and onion mixture.
-
Add the Rice: Carefully add the washed basmati rice to the pan, stirring gently to ensure each grain is well coated in the aromatic oil. Pour in 500ml of cold water, ensuring the ratio is twice the amount of water to rice for the best texture.
-
Boil and Simmer: Increase the heat to bring the water to a vigorous rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to the lowest setting and cover the pan with a lid.
-
Let It Cook: Allow the rice to cook undisturbed for 12 minutes. It’s crucial to resist the temptation to remove the lid during this time to let the steam work its magic.
-
Rest the Rice: After 12 minutes, remove the pan from the heat but keep the lid on for a couple of minutes. This resting period allows any remaining water to be absorbed, resulting in perfectly fluffy rice.
-
Fluff and Serve: Finally, remove the lid and gently fork through the rice to separate the grains, being careful not to stir too vigorously. This technique will maintain the light and fluffy texture of the rice. Serve hot as a side dish or enjoy it on its own!
Conclusion
Jeera Chaul is a versatile dish that perfectly complements a variety of Indian curries or can be enjoyed as a satisfying meal on its own. Its aromatic cumin seeds and sweet peas infuse the basmati rice with vibrant flavors, making it a beloved staple in vegetarian cuisine. Ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs, this recipe promises a delightful culinary experience in just 25 minutes of preparation and cooking time. Enjoy this comforting and aromatic dish with your favorite accompaniments!
