Ingredients and Weight:
- Basmati rice: 2 cups (500g)
- Water: 3 cups (750ml)
- Ghee or vegetable oil: 1/4 cup (60ml)
- Onion, finely chopped: 1 large (200g)
- Garlic, minced: 3 cloves (10g)
- Ginger, minced: 2 teaspoons (6g)
- Green chili peppers, finely chopped (optional): 1-2 (10-20g)
- Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon (2g)
- Ground coriander: 1 teaspoon (2g)
- Ground turmeric: 1/2 teaspoon (1g)
- Garam masala: 1 teaspoon (2g)
- Salt to taste
- Cilantro, chopped (for garnish): 1/4 cup (10g)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Difficulty Level: 2 (Easy)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Rinse the rice several times in cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat, heat the ghee or oil.
- Add the onion, garlic, and ginger and cook until the onion is softened and translucent.
- (Optional) If using chili peppers, add them to the pan and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add the rice and salt to taste. Stir to coat the rice in the spices.
- Pour in the water and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with cilantro.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 250 per serving (approx.)
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
Dish Characteristics:
- Fluffy and aromatic
- Mildly spiced with Indian flavors
- Visually appealing with the green garnish
User Comments:
- "This pilaf was so delicious! The spices were perfectly balanced and the rice was cooked to perfection."
- "I'm not usually a fan of Indian food, but I loved this pilaf. It was flavorful and easy to make."
- "This is my go-to recipe for a quick and easy side dish. My family always asks for seconds!"
Special Precautions and Tips:
- If you don't have basmati rice, you can use another long-grain rice like jasmine or Texmati.
- Adjust the amount of spices to suit your taste.
- To make the pilaf vegan, use vegetable oil instead of ghee.
- Serve the pilaf with your favorite Indian dishes, such as chicken tikka masala or dal.
