Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, rice dishes always hit the spot. One such classic rice dish is tempered rice, also known as tadka chawal. This simple yet flavorful dish is a staple in many Indian households. The combination of aromatic spices and perfectly cooked rice creates a delicious and satisfying meal. In this blog post, we will share a traditional recipe for tempered rice that you can easily recreate in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 green chili, slit lengthwise
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Wash the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
- In a large saucepan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chili to the pan. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the mixture is fragrant.
- Now, add the soaked and drained rice to the pan. Stir gently to coat the rice with the spices and onion mixture.
- Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt to taste. Mix well.
- Pour in the water and bring it to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid.
- Allow the rice to cook undisturbed for about 15-20 minutes or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked through.
- Once the rice is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice gently with a fork, ensuring that the grains remain intact.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
Variations
While the traditional tempered rice recipe is delicious on its own, you can also experiment with different variations to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas:
- Add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers to make it a more wholesome one-pot meal.
- For a protein-packed version, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Squeeze some lemon juice over the rice before serving for a tangy twist.
- Top it with fried onions and cashews for an added crunch.
Conclusion
Tempered rice, or tadka chawal, is a classic rice dish that is loved by many. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to meal for busy weeknights or special occasions. With this traditional recipe, you can easily recreate the flavors of Indian cuisine in your own kitchen. So, gather the ingredients, follow the instructions, and enjoy a comforting bowl of tempered rice today!