Keralite cuisine is renowned for its delicious and diverse flavors. One staple food of Kerala is rice, commonly known as “Kerala Rice”. This short-grain rice is native to Kerala and is widely consumed in the region. Cooking Kerala Rice can be done using various methods, one of which is using a pressure cooker. In this article, we will guide you through the easy steps to master the art of cooking Kerala Rice in a pressure cooker.
Gather the Ingredients and Equipment
Before starting your cooking journey, it is essential to gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment. For cooking Kerala Rice in a pressure cooker, you will need:
Ingredients:
– Kerala Rice: 1 cup
– Water: 2 cups
– Salt: a pinch
Equipment:
– Pressure cooker
– Measuring cup
– Wooden spoon or ladle
Preparation
Once you have gathered the ingredients and equipment, it’s time to prepare the rice for cooking. Follow these simple preparation steps:
1. Rinse the Rice: Take the Kerala Rice in a large bowl and rinse it thoroughly under cold water. This helps in removing any impurities or dust particles from the rice.
2. Soak the Rice: After rinsing, soak the rice in water for about 20-30 minutes. This step enhances the texture and ensures even cooking.
The Cooking Process
Now that the rice is ready for cooking, let’s dive into the cooking process itself. Here are the easy steps to cook Kerala Rice in a pressure cooker:
1. Add Rice to the Pressure Cooker: After soaking, drain the water from the rice and transfer it to the pressure cooker. Make sure to spread the rice evenly in the cooker.
2. Add Water: For every cup of Kerala Rice, you should add two cups of water. Hence, pour two cups of water into the pressure cooker. This ratio ensures perfectly cooked rice.
3. Season with Salt: Add a pinch of salt to the rice and water mixture. Salt enhances the flavor of the rice and provides a delightful taste.
4. Close the Pressure Cooker: Once all the ingredients are in the pressure cooker, secure the lid tightly. Make sure it is locked properly to prevent any steam from escaping during the cooking process.
5. Cook on High Heat: Place the pressure cooker on the stove over high heat. Allow the steam to build up and the pressure to build inside the cooker. As the pressure builds up, the rice will cook faster and more evenly.
6. Set the Timer: Once the pressure builds up, lower the heat to medium and set a timer for 5-6 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on your pressure cooker and the desired texture of the rice. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
7. Release the Pressure: After the cooking time is complete, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. Do not attempt to open the pressure cooker forcefully as the steam can cause harm.
8. Fluff the Rice: Once the pressure is released, open the pressure cooker lid carefully. Take a wooden spoon or ladle and gently fluff the rice to separate the grains.
Serving and Enjoying Kerala Rice
Congratulations! You have successfully mastered the art of cooking Kerala Rice in a pressure cooker. Now it’s time to serve and enjoy this delightful dish.
1. Serve Hot: Kerala Rice tastes best when served hot. Transfer the cooked rice to a serving dish or plate immediately after fluffing.
2. Pair with Accompaniments: Kerala Rice is traditionally enjoyed with various curries, stir-fried vegetables, or seafood dishes. It pairs exceptionally well with coconut-based curries or spicy gravies.
3. Garnish and Flavor: You can garnish the rice with freshly chopped coriander leaves or grated coconut to add an extra flavor dimension.
4. Store Properly: If you have any leftovers, allow the rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate the rice and consume it within 1-2 days.
In conclusion, cooking Kerala Rice in a pressure cooker is a simple and efficient way to enjoy this staple food. By following these easy steps, you can master the art of cooking Kerala Rice and treat yourself to a delicious and authentic meal. So go ahead, gather the ingredients, get your pressure cooker ready, and embark on your culinary adventure with Kerala Rice!