17 North Indian Jeera Rice Recipe Get Cooking And Enjoy!

Ingredients for North Indian Jeera Rice

Bold and flavorful spices

The key ingredient in jeera rice is, of course, the cumin seeds or jeera, which gives the dish its distinct flavor. Other spices that are commonly used in this dish include bay leaves, cardamom, and cinnamon, which add depth and complexity to the dish. These spices are easily available in most grocery stores and are essential for achieving the authentic taste of North Indian jeera rice.

Fragrant basmati rice

The type of rice used for jeera rice is crucial, as it contributes to the overall flavor and texture of the dish. Basmati rice, with its long grains and fragrant aroma, is the preferred choice for this dish. It is important to rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove any excess starch, which can result in clumpy rice.

Oil and ghee

Jeera rice is typically cooked in a combination of oil and ghee, which adds richness and enhances the flavor of the dish. Ghee, a form of clarified butter, is commonly used in Indian cooking and adds a distinct nutty flavor to the rice. However, if you do not have ghee on hand, you can use all oil instead.

Fresh herbs and garnishes

To add an extra layer of freshness and flavor to the dish, fresh herbs and garnishes such as coriander leaves and lemon wedges are commonly used. These ingredients not only add a pop of color but also provide a refreshing contrast to the warm and comforting flavors of the jeera rice.

Steps to Make North Indian Jeera Rice

Sauté the whole spices

The first step to making jeera rice is to sauté the whole spices (cumin seeds, bay leaves, cardamom, and cinnamon) in hot oil and ghee. This process helps to release the flavors and aromas of the spices, which will infuse into the rice as it cooks.

Add the rice and water

Next, add the rinsed basmati rice to the pot and stir it into the oil and spices, making sure each grain is coated. Then, add double the amount of water to the amount of rice used. For example, if you use 1 cup of rice, add 2 cups of water.

Cover and cook until done

Once the water comes to a boil, cover the pot and let the rice cook on low heat for about 15-20 minutes. It is important not to peek or stir the rice during this time, as it can result in unevenly cooked rice. After 15-20 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice rest for another 5 minutes before fluffing it with a fork.

Add garnishes and serve

Finally, add a squeeze of lemon juice and garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving the jeera rice. This step is optional but adds an extra layer of freshness and flavor to the dish. Serve the rice hot with your favorite Indian curry or enjoy it on its own as a flavorful side dish.

In Conclusion

North Indian jeera rice is a simple yet flavorful dish that can be easily recreated at home. With the right ingredients and technique, you can enjoy this delicious rice dish anytime you crave a taste of authentic Indian cuisine. So why not give it a try and elevate your next meal with a side of homemade jeera rice?