Rebecca Thompson
Dedicated woman chef with a passion for creating unforgettable main dishes. Innovative and skilled in crafting diverse flavors that leave a lasting impression.
Jeera Rice
Jeera Rice is a delightful Indian rice dish known for its flavorsome blend of spices. Jeera, also known as cumin seeds, is the star ingredient in this recipe and is what gives this dish its unique flavor and aroma. Cooked in coconut oil and seasoned with whole cumin and optional mustard seeds, this fragrant rice pulls together any Indian-inspired meal.
Originating from the Indian subcontinent, Jeera Rice is a staple side dish in Indian cuisine. It often graces the dinner tables of many households, as well as special events like weddings or large family gatherings. The beauty of Jeera Rice lies in its versatility. It pairs well with a variety of Indian dishes, adding an extra layer of flavor to curries, palak paneer, chana masala, vindaloo and many more.
Given its minimal ingredient list and quick preparation time, Jeera Rice is perfect for those who want a taste of Indian cuisine at home. An interesting cultural tidbit is that it is widely enjoyed during Indian festivals and religious rituals. Impress your guests or simply treat yourself by preparing this authentic Indian dish.
- Calories210
- Time30
- Portions4
- Score4.00
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Dry White Rice 1 cup
- Water 1 cup
- Sea Salt 1/4 tsp
Spices
- Coconut Oil 1 Tbsp
- Whole Cumin Seeds 1/2 tsp
- Whole Mustard Seeds 1/2 tsp
Preparation
Preparation of rice
Turn on the sauté function on your Instant Pot (to the default 'Normal' — not high or low) and add the coconut oil. Add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Turn off the sauté function.
Add rice, water, and salt and stir to prevent sticking. Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 4 minutes.
Once the timer goes off, allow to release naturally for at least 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. Carefully remove lid once steam has fully escaped.
Taste and adjust as needed, adding more salt to taste. Serve with traditional Indian dishes.
Storing and Reheating
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days or the freezer for up to 1 month.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little water until warm.
Suggestions
Variations and Add-ons
If you're looking for a healthier take on the traditional white jeera rice, you can use long grain brown rice. Keep in mind, this will require a longer cooking time; 20 minutes for the Instant Pot or 25-30 minutes for the stovetop.
For an even more aromatic jeera rice, you can add in additional spices such as cardamom, cloves, and bay leaves.
Using the Stovetop Method
If you don't have an Instant Pot, you can prepare the jeera rice on the stovetop. Follow the same procedure, but use 2 cups of water instead of 1. Bring to a boil over high heat, then lower to a simmer and cover. Ensure it’s simmering and not boiling, or the rice can cook too quickly.
Achieving Fluffy Rice
After the rice is cooked, let it sit for 10 minutes before fluffing it with a fork. This results in a more tender and fluffy texture.
Frequent Questions
Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of rice like brown rice or jasmine rice for this recipe. But different types of rice might have different cooking times and water ratios. Adjust those according to the type of rice you are using.
Can I omit the mustard seeds?
The mustard seeds contribute to the overall flavor of the dish, but if you don't have mustard seeds on hand, you can omit them. The cumin seeds are the main flavor component in this dish.
What can I serve with jeera rice?
Jeera rice goes best with Indian curries or lentil dishes. It can also be served with tandoori chicken or any other spicy main dish.
What if I don't have an Instant Pot?
If you don't have an Instant Pot, you can prepare the jeera rice on the stovetop. The procedure is the same, but you would need to use 2 cups of water instead of 1.
How can I reheat the leftover jeera rice?
Leftover jeera rice can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little water until warm. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days or in the freezer for up to 1 month.