Beetroot Greens Rice Recipe: A Delicious and Nutritious Indian Dish
Beetroot Greens Rice is a delightful and nutritious Indian dish that transforms the often-overlooked beetroot greens into a flavorful and hearty meal. Packed with vitamins and minerals, beetroot greens bring a fresh, earthy taste that pairs perfectly with the mildness of rice. Next time you purchase beetroots, don’t discard the vibrant green leavesโmake this simple yet delicious rice dish for a healthy and unique addition to your meals.
This recipe is perfect for a quick, flavorful dinner or a light lunch. It can be served on its own or paired with a side of Tomato Onion Cucumber Raita to complement the flavors.
Ingredients
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked Rice | 1 cup |
| Beetroot Greens (finely chopped) | 200 grams |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Ginger (finely chopped) | 1-inch piece |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 4 cloves |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
Preparation Time
20 minutes
Cooking Time
15 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Beetroot Greens:
Begin by removing the beetroot greens from the beetroot and rinsing them thoroughly. Make sure to wash them in cold water for about 4-5 times to remove any dirt or impurities. Once cleaned, finely chop the leaves along with the tender pink stems. Keep the pink stems separate for later use. -
Saute the Aromatics:
Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds to the hot oil. Let them crackle, signaling that the spices are ready to release their flavors. Add the finely chopped onion, ginger, and garlic to the pan. Saute them until the onions turn translucent, which will take around 3-4 minutes. -
Cook the Pink Stems:
Add the chopped pink beetroot stems to the pan and sprinkle a little water over them. Cover the pan and cook for about 5 minutes until the stems soften and begin to cook through. -
Add the Greens and Spices:
Now, add the chopped beetroot greens to the pan. Let the greens cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing them to wilt down. Sprinkle in the red chili powder and coriander powder, stirring to combine. Cook the mixture for another 3 minutes, letting the spices infuse into the greens. -
Mix in the Rice:
Add the cooked rice to the pan with the greens and spices. Stir well to ensure the rice is evenly coated with the masala mixture. Let everything mix thoroughly. -
Simmer the Rice:
Once the rice is well combined with the greens and spices, cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the rice to simmer for about 5 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together and ensure the rice absorbs the aromatic spices. -
Adjust the Seasoning:
Taste the rice and adjust the salt according to your preference. Once the seasoning is just right, remove the pan from the heat. -
Serve:
Transfer the Beetroot Greens Rice to a serving plate. Serve it with a side of Tomato Onion Cucumber Raita for a refreshing contrast. Enjoy the health benefits and delightful flavors of this nutritious, vegetarian dish!
Tips for the Best Beetroot Greens Rice
- You can use leftover rice for this recipe to save time.
- For a richer flavor, you can add a little ghee (clarified butter) in place of oil.
- Feel free to adjust the quantity of red chili powder according to your spice preference.
- To add some crunch, you can top the dish with roasted nuts or seeds, such as cashews or sunflower seeds.
Why Beetroot Greens?
Beetroot greens are a powerhouse of nutrients. They are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and packed with essential minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium. These greens not only add color and flavor to dishes but also boost overall health. Including beetroot greens in your diet is an excellent way to add a nutritious, flavorful element to your meals without much extra effort.
By making Beetroot Greens Rice, you can enjoy a tasty and healthy meal that’s as easy as it is delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is sure to become a regular in your repertoire.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of Indian curries, dals, and raitas. For a balanced meal, serve it with a cooling Tomato Onion Cucumber Raita to balance the spices, or opt for a simple Cucumber Salad to keep things fresh and light.
Conclusion
Beetroot Greens Rice is a simple yet delicious Indian vegetarian dish that makes great use of beetroot leaves, turning them into a flavorful main course. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for any night of the week, offering a delightful mix of earthy greens, aromatic spices, and comforting rice. Try it the next time you’re looking to make a quick, nutritious dinner or want to elevate your regular rice dishes with a twist!
