Sella rice is a popular type of rice known for its long grain and delightful aroma. It is often used to prepare various dishes, but one of the most delicious and flavorful ways to enjoy it is by cooking it as a pulao. A pulao is a rice dish that incorporates a variety of spices and ingredients, resulting in a tantalizing and satisfying meal. In this ultimate guide, we will explore the step-by-step process of cooking sella rice for a delicious pulao that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
Understanding Sella Rice
Before we delve into the cooking process, let’s first understand what sella rice is and why it is a fantastic choice for a pulao. Sella rice is a parboiled rice that undergoes a unique processing technique. The rice is soaked, steamed, and then dried, which helps retain its nutrients and enhances its texture and taste.
One of the main reasons why sella rice is an excellent option for a pulao is because of its long grains. These grains stay separate and do not stick together, which is important when cooking a pulao. Additionally, sella rice has a tendency to absorb flavors, making it a perfect canvas for the spices and aromatics used in a pulao.
Ingredients
To cook sella rice for a delicious pulao, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups of sella rice
– 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
– 1 bay leaf
– 4-5 whole cloves
– 2-3 green cardamom pods
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
Cooking Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process step by step:
Step 1: Washing the Rice
To ensure that the rice is clean and free from any impurities, it is essential to wash it thoroughly. Place the sella rice in a large bowl and rinse it under cold running water. Gently rub the grains between your fingers to remove any dirt or debris. Repeat this process a few times until the water runs clear.
Step 2: Soaking the Rice
Once the rice is washed, it is time to soak it. Transfer the washed rice into a separate bowl and add enough water to cover the grains completely. Let the rice soak for at least 30 minutes. Soaking the rice helps soften the grains and ensures they cook evenly.
Step 3: Preparing the Aromatics
While the rice is soaking, prepare the aromatics that will add flavor to your pulao. Heat the ghee or vegetable oil in a large, deep pan. Once hot, add the cumin seeds, bay leaf, cloves, cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick. Sauté them for a minute or until they release their fragrant aroma.
Step 4: Sautéing the Onions and Ginger-Garlic Paste
After the aromatics have infused the oil or ghee, it’s time to add the chopped onions. Sauté the onions until they turn golden brown, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once the onions are caramelized, add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
Step 5: Adding the Spices
To give your pulao its signature flavor, it’s time to add the spices. Sprinkle the turmeric powder and red chili powder into the pan, and season with salt according to your taste preferences. Stir the spices into the onion mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Step 6: Cooking the Rice
Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pan with the spice mixture. Gently mix the rice with the spices, making sure each grain is coated. 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 the grains are tender and cooked through.
Step 7: Fluffing the Rice
Once the rice is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the rice to absorb any excess moisture. After 5 minutes, use a fork to fluff the rice, separating the grains gently.
Step 8: Garnishing and Serving
Transfer the cooked sella rice pulao to a serving dish and garnish it with fresh coriander leaves. The vibrant green color and fresh aroma of coriander will add a delightful touch to your pulao. Serve the pulao hot with raita, salad, or any side dish of your choice.
Conclusion
Cooking sella rice for a delicious pulao is a delightful culinary experience. The unique processing technique of sella rice results in long and separate grains that absorb the flavors of the spices and aromatics used in a pulao. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can create a mouthwatering pulao that will impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and savor the sensational flavors of sella rice pulao.