Potato rice is a simple yet delicious dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish. It is a flavorful combination of rice and potatoes, cooked together with aromatic spices and herbs. In this article, we will discuss an easy recipe for cooking potato rice that will surely tantalize your taste buds. So, let’s get started!
Ingredients
To prepare potato rice, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups of Basmati rice
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
– 2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional)
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust as per your spice preference)
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt to taste
– 4 cups of water
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnishing
– Cooking oil or ghee (clarified butter)
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Rice
Start by washing the Basmati rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Soaking the rice for 30 minutes before cooking will help achieve nice, fluffy rice. Drain the water after soaking.
Step 2: Sautéing the Potatoes
In a deep-bottomed pan or a pressure cooker, heat some oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the cubed potatoes and sauté them until they turn golden brown. Remove the potatoes from the pan and set them aside for later use.
Step 3: Tempering the Spices
In the same pan, add some more oil or ghee if required. Once it is heated, add cumin seeds and allow them to splutter. Then, add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent. Next, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chilies (if using). Sauté for a minute or until the raw smell disappears.
Step 4: Cooking the Rice and Potatoes
Now, add the drained rice to the pan and gently mix it with the onion and spice mixture. Sauté for a couple of minutes to coat the rice with the flavors. Add the sautéed potatoes back to the pan and stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
In a separate pot, heat 4 cups of water. Once the water comes to a rolling boil, carefully pour it into the pan with the rice and potato mixture. Season with salt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala powder. Give everything a good stir.
If you are using a pressure cooker, cover it with the lid and cook on medium heat for 2 whistles. Then, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally.
If you are using a regular pot, cover it with a tight-fitting lid and cook on low heat for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and fluffy. You may periodically check and stir gently to ensure the rice cooks evenly.
Step 5: Garnishing and Serving
Once the potato rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit covered for a few minutes to allow the flavors to mingle. Then, fluff the rice using a fork. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro leaves to add a pop of freshness and vibrant green color.
You can serve the potato rice hot with a side of yogurt, raita, or any curry of your choice. It also pairs well with pickle or papad (Indian crispy snacks).
Tips and Variations
– To enhance the flavors, you can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers along with the potatoes.
– For a more indulgent version, you can add fried cashews or raisins to the potato rice before serving.
– If you prefer a spicier taste, increase the amount of red chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
– Feel free to adjust the spices according to your personal preference. If you like it mild, reduce the amount of chili powder and green chilies.
– Leftover potato rice can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day. Just reheat it in a microwave or on the stovetop with a little water to keep it moist.
So, there you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for cooking potato rice. It is a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re a fan of spicy flavors or prefer a milder version, potato rice is sure to satisfy your cravings. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful combination of rice, potatoes, and aromatic spices!