EASY ZEERA RICE (Cumin Rice)
Fluffy, perfectly cooked rice with all the flavor but super simple to make. Rice is flavored with cumin seeds, cumin powder, garam masala and salt. This is a great way to quickly elevate boring white rice.
There are many different variations of zeera rice. Each time I make a side of rice I use a variety of different whole spices, powder spices and aromatics. The way I am showing here is very simple with few ingredients
RECIPE DETAILS
This recipe is very straight forward. Few things to keep in mind when cooking rice.
- Use good quality basmati rice. I used a brand called zebra basmati rice.
- Always rinse basmati rice to get rid of excess starch. Rinse till water runs a little clear. This will ensure rice is not sticky.
- You can soak them for about 15-20 minutes. Each brand of rice is different, some have instructions on how long to soak that particular rice. When I am in a hurry, I have cooked rice without soaking.
- If you have stock or broth on hand, add instead of water. Just adjust the amount of salt.
- When steaming the rice, always cook on low flame.
- Always always check the rice towards the end of cooking time.
MORE RICE RECIPES
EASY ZEERA RICE (Cumin Rice)
Fluffy, perfectly cooked rice with all the flavor but super simple to make. Aromatic basmati rice is flavored with cumin seeds, cumin powder, garam masala and salt. This rice will surly replace boring white rice.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups basmati rice (rinsed, soaked and drained )
- 6 tablespoons oil
- 2 teaspoons cumin seeds
- 2 teaspoons cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 2 water
Instructions
- Rinse the rice about 3 times until water runs clear. Soak the rice room temperature water for about 20 minutes or follow instructions on rice bag.
- In a nonstick medium size pot heat oil over medium high heat. Once oil is hot add cumin seeds. Let these crackle for about 10 seconds. Careful not to burn the seeds.
- Lower flame to medium and add cumin powder, garam masala and salt. Mix and let these spices sear for 5-7 seconds. Keep a close eye because these spices can burn easily.
- Add the drained rice and 2 cups water. Let it come to a boil and continue cooking rice until some of the water has evaporated and you start to see the rice. Wrap the lid with foil or clean kitchen towel and cover the pot. Turn the heat to the lowest flame. Put on a timer for 25 minutes. Once cooking time is over let the rice sit for about 10 minutes before serving. Fluff the rice with a fork.
