Allahabadi Tehri Recipe (UP Style Vegetable Rice)
Introduction
Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Uttar Pradesh with the delightful Allahabadi Tehri, a fragrant and colorful rice dish that perfectly encapsulates the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine. This delectable vegetarian preparation is a harmonious blend of basmati rice and an assortment of fresh vegetables, all brought together with an array of aromatic spices. Ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish pairs wonderfully with Mirchi Ka Salan and Burani Raita, adding layers of taste and texture to your meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati rice | 1½ cups |
| Mixed vegetables (potatoes, beans, cauliflower, carrots) | 1 cup |
| Curd (Dahi / Yogurt) | 1 cup |
| Cinnamon stick (Dalchini) | 1 |
| Bay leaf (Tej patta) | 1 |
| Cardamom (Elaichi) pods | 3 |
| Black cardamom | 1 |
| Whole black peppercorns | 4 |
| Cloves (Laung) | 4 |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | ¼ teaspoon |
| Onion (thinly sliced) | 1 |
| Garlic (roughly crushed) | 4 cloves |
| Ginger (roughly crushed) | 1 inch |
| Green chillies (slit) | 2 |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | ½ teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Coriander powder (Dhania) | 1 tablespoon |
| Cumin powder (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Ghee | 2 teaspoons |
| Lemon juice | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 350 |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 60g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings
- Serves: 4
Instructions
-
Preparation of Rice:
Begin by thoroughly washing the basmati rice under running water until the water runs clear. This step is crucial to remove excess starch, ensuring fluffy rice. Soak the washed rice in water for about 10 minutes to allow it to hydrate. -
-
Vegetable Preparation:
While the rice is soaking, prepare the vegetables. Dice potatoes, green beans, cauliflower, and carrots into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Set them aside once cut. -
Spice Infusion:
Heat the mustard oil in a wide, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Allow the oil to reach a smoking point. This step not only enhances the flavor but also reduces the oil’s pungency. -
Sautéing Aromatics:
Once the oil is smoking, carefully add the asafoetida and the whole garam masalas, including the cinnamon stick, bay leaf, green and black cardamom, whole black peppercorns, and cloves. Sauté for a minute until the oil is infused with their aromatic flavors. -
Onion and Garlic:
Next, add the thinly sliced onion to the pan. Sauté the onion until it turns translucent, releasing its natural sweetness. Follow this with the roughly pounded ginger and garlic mixture, cooking until the raw aroma dissipates. -
Spice Mix:
Stir in the slit green chillies, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, and coriander powder. Sauté the mixture for about a minute, allowing the spices to bloom and create a fragrant base. -
Vegetable Addition:
Incorporate the prepared mixed vegetables into the pan, stirring well to coat them with the spice mixture. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and take on a slight golden hue. -
Yogurt Integration:
Gently add the whisked yogurt to the pan, stirring continuously until the mixture is well combined and the vegetables are coated with the creamy yogurt sauce. This will add a tangy flavor to the dish. -
Cooking the Rice:
Drain the soaked basmati rice and add it to the pan. Pour in 4 cups of water and season with salt to taste. Stir gently to mix all the ingredients, then cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid. Cook the mixture over low heat for about 20 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors and steam until tender. -
Finishing Touches:
Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes. Finally, add the ghee and lemon juice, gently fluffing the rice with a fork to combine all the flavors without breaking the grains. -
Serving:
Serve the Allahabadi Tehri hot, garnished with fresh coriander if desired, alongside a generous helping of Mirchi Ka Salan and creamy Burani Raita for a complete and satisfying meal that highlights the culinary richness of Uttar Pradesh.
Conclusion
Indulge in the wholesome and delightful flavors of Allahabadi Tehri, a dish that reflects the culinary heritage of Uttar Pradesh. This vibrant rice preparation is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together around the dining table, celebrating the joy of shared food and memories. Enjoy this comforting recipe and make it a regular feature in your weeknight dinner rotation!
