Cooking rice with mixed vegetables is not only a nutritious option but also a delicious one. This recipe combines the goodness of rice with the vitamins and minerals of various vegetables. It is a perfect way to add flavor, color, and texture to a simple bowl of rice. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and will surely impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
For the rice:
– 1 cup of long grain rice
– 2 cups of water
– 1 teaspoon of salt
For the mixed vegetables:
– 1 carrot, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup of green beans, chopped
– 1 cup of peas
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of oil
– 1 teaspoon of cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon of red chili powder (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the rice
1. Rinse the rice under cold water to remove any excess starch. Rinsing the rice will result in fluffier grains.
2. In a pot, add the rinsed rice, water, and salt. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat.
3. Once the water starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let the rice cook for about 15-20 minutes or until all the water has been absorbed.
4. Remove the pot from the heat and let the rice sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. This will allow the rice to steam and become even more tender.
Step 2: Preparing the mixed vegetables
5. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
6. Add the diced carrot, bell pepper, green beans, and peas to the skillet. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes or until they are cooked but still slightly crisp.
7. Sprinkle the cumin powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder (if using) over the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to evenly coat the vegetables with the spices.
8. Continue cooking the vegetables for another 2-3 minutes, until they are well combined and flavorful.
Step 3: Combining the rice and mixed vegetables
9. Once both the rice and mixed vegetables are ready, gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
10. Transfer the cooked rice to the skillet with the mixed vegetables. Gently toss the rice and vegetables together until they are well combined.
11. Cook the rice and mixed vegetables together for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving:
12. Transfer the cooked rice with mixed vegetables to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for added freshness and flavor.
13. This dish can be served as a main course or as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu.
14. You can also serve it with a side of yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the taste.
Variations:
This recipe is versatile, and you can customize it according to your preferences and what vegetables you have on hand. Here are some variations you can try:
1. Protein-packed:
– Add cooked chickpeas, tofu, or shredded chicken to the mixed vegetables for an extra protein boost.
2. Fresh and crunchy:
– Include vegetables like shredded cabbage, sliced mushrooms, or broccoli florets for added crunch and freshness.
3. Thai-inspired:
– Substitute the cumin and turmeric with Thai curry paste for a spicy kick. Add some coconut milk and garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro.
Tips:
– To save time, you can use frozen mixed vegetables instead of chopping fresh ones. Just thaw them before adding them to the skillet.
– Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to the dish to amp up the taste.
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little bit of water to prevent drying.
In conclusion, cooking rice with mixed vegetables is a simple yet fulfilling way to enjoy a nutritious and flavorful meal. This recipe allows you to experiment with different vegetables and spices to suit your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy it as a standalone dish or as a side, this rice with mixed vegetables recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.