Fried Barnyard Millet Recipe – Fried Samvat Rice
Description:
Navratri, a festival celebrated in honor of Goddess Durga, brings along the tradition of fasting for nine days. During this period, special ingredients and grains like Samvat rice are allowed. One of the most popular dishes to enjoy during this fasting period is Fried Samvat Rice, also known as Fried Barnyard Millet. This savory, aromatic dish is light yet fulfilling, making it perfect for a fasting meal or a light dinner option.
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Samvat rice (or vrat ke chawal) | 1 cup |
| Ghee | 2 tablespoons |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Whole Black Peppercorns | 3 whole |
| Green Chillies | 2, chopped |
| Potato (Aloo) | 1, peeled and cubed |
| Tomato | 1, chopped |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 1 tablespoon |
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 150 grams, cubed |
| Lemon juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Cashew nuts | 8, whole |
| Rock Salt (Sendha Namak) | As required |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: Serves 2-3
Instructions:
-
Soak the Rice:
Wash and soak the Samvat rice for 20 minutes before cooking. This helps in softening the grains and makes them cook more evenly. -
Cook the Rice:
In a saucepan, heat 2-1/2 cups of water. Add the soaked rice, cubed potatoes, and a pinch of rock salt. Cook the mixture on medium heat, ensuring that the rice and potatoes are cooked through. The rice should absorb the water and become soft and fluffy. Once cooked, set it aside. -
Prepare the Flavor Base:
Heat ghee in a wok or kadhai. Add cumin seeds and black peppercorns, sautรฉing until the cumin splutters and releases its aroma. Then, add the cashew nuts and fry them until they are golden brown. -
Cook the Vegetables:
Next, add the chopped tomatoes and green chilies to the wok. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and turn into a slight paste-like consistency. Season with rock salt and let it cook on low heat for another few minutes to develop the flavors. -
Combine the Rice:
Add the cooked Samvat rice and cubed potatoes to the wok, gently stirring to combine. Ensure the rice is well-coated with the spices and vegetables. Let it cook for a couple of minutes to infuse all the flavors. -
Finishing Touches:
Once combined, switch off the flame. Squeeze in the lemon juice and sprinkle fresh coriander leaves over the rice. Stir gently to mix the fresh flavors in and cover the pan. Let it sit for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to settle and meld together. -
Fry the Paneer:
In a separate pan, heat a little ghee and fry the paneer cubes and cashew nuts until golden brown. Add them to the cooked fried rice just before serving. -
Serve:
Serve the Fried Samvat Rice or Barnyard Millet hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with Palak Makhana (Spinach with Fox Nuts) and Tadka Raita for a satisfying fasting meal or a light, healthy dinner.
Enjoy the delightful flavors of this easy-to-make, comforting dish that’s perfect for Navratri fasting or any day you seek a nutritious, vegetarian meal.
