Kerala Matta Rice, also known as Rosematta rice or Palakkadan Matta Rice, is a unique and flavorful type of rice native to the South Indian state of Kerala. It is renowned for its reddish-brown color, long grains, and distinct taste. In this article, we will explore how to cook Kerala Matta Rice in an Instant Pot, a modern and convenient cooking device that significantly reduces cooking time. By following these simple steps, you can effortlessly prepare this delicious and nutritious rice dish in no time.
Choosing the Right Type of Kerala Matta Rice
Before we delve into the cooking process, it is essential to choose the right type of Kerala Matta Rice for your Instant Pot preparation. Look for high-quality, organic, and unpolished varieties of Kerala Matta Rice. This ensures that you get the maximum nutritional benefits and enjoy the authentic taste of this traditional rice.
Preparation: Washing and Soaking
Like any other rice variety, preparing Kerala Matta Rice begins with washing and soaking. Rinse the rice with water to remove any impurities and starch. Repeat this process 2-3 times until the water runs clear. Soaking the rice for about 30 minutes helps soften the grains and reduces the overall cooking time.
Ratio of Rice to Water
The ideal ratio of rice to water plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and consistency of cooked Kerala Matta Rice. For every cup of rice, use approximately 1.5 cups of water. However, this ratio can be adjusted according to personal preference. If you prefer softer rice, increase the water quantity slightly.
Adding Flavorful Ingredients
To enhance the taste and fragrance of Kerala Matta Rice, we can incorporate various flavorful ingredients. Some popular choices include whole spices like bay leaves, cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom pods. These spices infuse their aromatic essence into the rice during the cooking process. Additionally, adding a few drops of ghee or clarified butter can further enrich the flavor.
Cooking Kerala Matta Rice in an Instant Pot
Now that we have covered the basic preparations let’s proceed to the cooking process using an Instant Pot. An Instant Pot is a versatile electric pressure cooker that combines the functions of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, and more. Its sealed design traps the steam and pressure inside, resulting in faster and more efficient cooking.
Sautéing the Spices
Step one involves sautéing the spices to intensify their flavors before adding the rice. Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” mode and heat a tablespoon of ghee or oil. Once the ghee is hot, add the whole spices like bay leaves, cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom pods. Allow them to sizzle and release their aroma for about a minute.
Adding Rice and Water
After sautéing the spices, add the soaked and drained Kerala Matta Rice to the Instant Pot. Sauté the rice for a minute or two, stirring well to coat each grain with the spices and ghee. Next, pour in the appropriate amount of water, as discussed earlier, ensuring that the water level is slightly above the rice.
Pressure Cooking
Once you have added the rice and water, it’s time to pressure cook the Kerala Matta Rice. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and seal it. Select the “Manual” mode and set the cooking time to 10 minutes. It is important to note that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the specific Instant Pot model and personal preference.
Natural Pressure Release
Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to release the pressure naturally for about 10-15 minutes. Natural pressure release ensures that the rice continues to cook even after the pressure cooking process, resulting in perfectly tender and fluffy grains.
Fluffing the Rice
Carefully open the lid of the Instant Pot after the natural pressure release. Using a fork, gently fluff the cooked Kerala Matta Rice to separate the grains. This step helps in eliminating any clumps and evenly distributing the flavors throughout the rice.
Serving and Enjoying Kerala Matta Rice
Congratulations! Your perfectly cooked Kerala Matta Rice is now ready to be served. This delightful rice dish pairs beautifully with traditional South Indian curries, stews, or even as an accompaniment to a variety of international dishes. The unique taste and texture of Kerala Matta Rice are sure to leave you craving for more.
In conclusion, cooking Kerala Matta Rice in an Instant Pot is a convenient and time-saving method that allows you to savor the authentic flavors of this distinct rice variety in no time. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can effortlessly prepare a flavorful delight that perfectly complements a range of dishes. So, get your Instant Pot ready and embark on a culinary journey to discover the magic of Kerala Matta Rice.