How to Make Authentic Mandi Rice recipe at Home

basmati rice

🥗Healthier: brown rice

💰Cheaper: long-grain rice

Brown rice adds fiber and nutrients, while long-grain rice is more affordable.

saffron

🥗Healthier: turmeric

💰Cheaper: coloring spices

Turmeric provides color and health benefits at a lower cost.

chicken

🥗Healthier: quinoa

💰Cheaper: chickpeas

Quinoa is a protein-rich alternative, while chickpeas are budget-friendly.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil has a high smoke point and is healthier, while vegetable oil is economical.

Wash 4 cups of basmati rice until the water runs clear.

Soak the rice in warm water for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the masala by toasting 4 cloves of green cardamom, 1 teaspoon of coriander seeds, 0.5 teaspoon of cloves, 1 star anise, 1 teaspoon of black peppercorns, 2-inch cinnamon stick, and 0.5 nutmeg clove for at least 1.5 minutes, then mill them into a powder.

In a pot, add 4 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of clarified butter or ghee; melt the ghee.

Add 1 bay leaf and another stick of cinnamon to the pot, followed by 1 large chopped onion and Sano chilies; cook until the onion is golden brown.

Add salt to taste, followed by the garlic and ginger paste; cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Stir in 0.5 tablespoon of chili powder, 0.5 tablespoon of curry powder, and 1 tablespoon of the prepared Mandy Masala; cook until caramelized, about 2 minutes.

Add the soaked rice to the pot along with water from rinsing the grinder and the juice of half a lemon; taste to ensure the broth is well seasoned.

Cover the pot with parchment paper and then place the lid on; cook on low-medium heat for 30 minutes.

After 30 minutes, carefully remove the parchment paper to avoid condensation falling back into the rice.

Fluff the rice gently with a fork to avoid breaking the grains; serve on a platter.

Garnish with fried onions, cashew nuts, almonds, raisins, and coriander leaves (or flat leaf parsley).

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary