Nigella Seed Beetroot Rice Recipe: A Vibrant and Flavorful Indian Delight
Looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy rice dish that brings vibrant color and bold flavors to your dinner table? This Nigella Seed Beetroot Rice is the perfect choice! Packed with the earthy sweetness of beetroot, the subtle bite of nigella seeds (kalonji), and a hint of green chili, this aromatic rice dish is as nutritious as it is delicious. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side or pairing it with a raita, it’s sure to impress your guests or family alike.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati rice (cooked) | 2 cups |
| Beetroot (finely grated) | 2 cups |
| Kalonji (Nigella Seeds) | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper powder | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Green chili (finely grated) | 1 (optional, for heat) |
| Sunflower oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Coriander leaves (chopped) | For garnish |
Preparation Time
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time
- 15 minutes
Total Time
- 25 minutes
Servings
- 2 servings
Cuisine
- Indian
Course
- Dinner
Diet
- Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Prepare the Rice:
Begin by cooking the Basmati rice. Once cooked, spread it out on a flat surface or a wide bowl to cool down slightly. This step is essential to ensure the rice doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the beetroot mixture. -
Cook the Beetroot:
Heat a heavy-bottomed wok or pan over medium heat. Add the sunflower oil and let it heat up. Add half of the kalonji (nigella seeds) and the finely grated green chili. Sauté for about 30 seconds, allowing the flavors to release. -
Add Beetroot and Spices:
Add the finely grated beetroot to the wok, along with salt to taste. Toss the beetroot mixture for about 2 minutes, letting the spices blend with the vegetable. The beetroot will begin to soften and release its juice. -
Simmer the Mixture:
Pour 1 cup of water into the wok, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for around 5 minutes until the beetroot is fully cooked and tender. Leave just a little water in the pan (about 1-2 tablespoons) when the cooking is done. -
Combine with Rice:
Once the beetroot mixture is ready, add the cooled Basmati rice to the wok. Gently stir to mix the rice and beetroot, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the beautiful pink color. Let it cook together for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. -
Final Seasoning and Garnish:
Taste the rice and adjust the seasoning with salt or a little more black pepper, if desired. Serve the Nigella Seed Beetroot Rice warm, garnished with freshly chopped coriander leaves, a sprinkle of black pepper, and the remaining nigella seeds for added flavor and texture. -
Serving Suggestions:
This flavorful rice pairs perfectly with a cooling Tomato Onion Cucumber Raita, a tangy Tadka Raita, or any raita of your choice. The combination of these sides elevates the meal, making it a wholesome and satisfying vegetarian dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Vibrant and Healthy:
The vivid color of beetroot not only makes this dish a feast for the eyes, but it also brings along a host of health benefits. Beetroot is known for its high fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins. -
Quick and Easy:
This recipe requires minimal ingredients and only takes 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect weekday dinner option when you’re short on time but still want something flavorful. -
Aromatic and Flavorful:
The combination of nigella seeds, turmeric, black pepper, and the fresh heat from green chilies creates a beautifully aromatic base that complements the earthiness of the beetroot. -
Customizable:
Adjust the heat level by using more or less green chili, or add other vegetables of your choice to the dish. You can also swap sunflower oil for ghee for a richer flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~200 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | ~400mg |
| Vitamin A | 5% of Daily Value |
| Vitamin C | 10% of Daily Value |
| Iron | 6% of Daily Value |
This Nigella Seed Beetroot Rice is not only a visual delight but a nutritious, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a regular on your dinner menu. Try this recipe and enjoy the beautiful fusion of spices and wholesome ingredients that make Indian cuisine so beloved worldwide.
Enjoy your meal, and don’t forget to garnish generously with coriander for that fresh, herbal touch!
