Maharashtrian Narali Bhaat (Sweetened Coconut Rice) Recipe
Maharashtrian Narali Bhaat, also known as Sweetened Coconut Rice, is a traditional dish from the coastal state of Maharashtra in India. This delightful recipe combines fragrant basmati rice with the rich flavors of fresh coconut, aromatic spices, and jaggery, making it a perfect dish for festivals and special occasions. The addition of roasted dry fruits and saffron elevates this rice dish into a fragrant, flavorful treat that’s bound to impress your guests.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati rice | 1 cup |
| Fresh coconut (grated) | 3/4 cup |
| Jaggery (grated) | 3/4 cup |
| Saffron strands | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cloves (Laung) | 9-10 |
| Ghee | 4 tablespoons |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Mixed nuts (raisins, cashews, almonds) | 1/4 cup (chopped) |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 54 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 19 g |
| Sodium | 5 mg |
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
Servings
| Number of Servings | 4 servings |
Cuisine & Course
| Cuisine | Maharashtrian |
|---|---|
| Course | Lunch, Side Dish |
| Diet | Vegetarian |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Begin by thoroughly washing the basmati rice. Drain the water and set the rice aside to soak for 45 minutes. This step ensures that the rice cooks perfectly and the grains remain fluffy after cooking.
Step 2: Roast the Dry Fruits
In a small pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee over low heat. Add the mixed nuts (raisins, cashews, almonds, or any nuts of your choice) and sauté them for about 2-3 minutes, or until they become golden and roasted. Remove the roasted nuts from the ghee and set them aside for later use.
Step 3: Cooking the Rice
In a non-stick or heavy-bottomed pan, melt 3 tablespoons of ghee over low heat. Add the cloves (laung) and sauté for 3-4 minutes, allowing them to puff up and release their aromatic fragrance.
Next, add the washed rice to the pan and toss it gently to coat the grains evenly with the ghee. The rice will absorb the aromatic flavors of the cloves and ghee, giving it a rich base flavor.
Step 4: Add Water and Saffron
Pour 2 cups of water into the pan along with the saffron strands. Bring the mixture to a brisk boil over medium-high heat. Once it begins to boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let the rice cook on low heat until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender (around 12-15 minutes).
Step 5: Prepare the Jaggery and Coconut Mixture
While the rice is cooking, take a small saucepan and add the grated jaggery and grated coconut. Place the saucepan on low to medium heat and allow the jaggery to melt, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the pan.
Once the jaggery has melted and the mixture is smooth, remove the saucepan from the heat.
Step 6: Combine the Jaggery-Coconut Mixture with Rice
Once the rice is cooked, gently fluff it with a fork to separate the grains. Pour the melted jaggery and coconut mixture over the rice. Mix the ingredients carefully, ensuring that the rice remains intact and the mixture is evenly distributed. Use a fork to fluff the rice gently at this stage, which will help keep the grains light and airy.
Step 7: Final Cooking
Cover the pan once more and cook the rice on low heat for an additional 4-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The coconut and jaggery will infuse the rice, giving it a rich sweetness and fragrant aroma.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the Narali Bhaat (Sweetened Coconut Rice) to a serving bowl. Garnish with the roasted mixed nuts that you set aside earlier. The roasted nuts add a delightful crunch and an additional layer of flavor to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Maharashtrian Narali Bhaat is a versatile dish that can be served as a standalone dish or paired with a variety of accompaniments. It is commonly enjoyed during festivals, special occasions, and celebrations like Ganesh Chaturthi or Makar Sankranti. Serve it alongside curries or raita for a well-rounded meal.
Tips for Perfect Narali Bhaat
- Rice Soaking: Be sure to soak the rice for at least 45 minutes to ensure the grains cook uniformly and remain fluffy.
- Saffron Infusion: For the best aroma and flavor, soak the saffron strands in a tablespoon of warm water for a few minutes before adding them to the rice.
- Jaggery Substitute: If jaggery is unavailable, you can use brown sugar as a substitute, although the flavor will be slightly different.
- Texture Preference: If you prefer a slightly more creamy texture, you can add a tablespoon of milk or coconut milk when adding the jaggery-coconut mixture.
- Nuts and Fruits: Customize the nuts and dry fruits as per your preference. You can add cashews, almonds, raisins, or even dried cranberries for an interesting twist.
Why You’ll Love Maharashtrian Narali Bhaat
This dish is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. The combination of aromatic spices, sweet coconut, and the richness of ghee makes it a truly indulgent dish. The addition of jaggery lends a natural sweetness that balances beautifully with the earthy flavor of the coconut. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something comforting, Narali Bhaat is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Final Thoughts
Maharashtrian Narali Bhaat is a dish that embodies the essence of traditional Indian cooking: simple, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. Its blend of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors makes it a standout at any meal. Whether enjoyed as a festive dish or as a comforting side, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the rich, vibrant flavors of this sweetened coconut rice and share it with your loved ones!
