Samo Rice, also known as Vrat ke Chawal or Samvat Rice, is a popular and delicious grain that is commonly used during fasting or vrat meals in India. It is a gluten-free grain that is packed with essential nutrients, making it a healthy and nutritious choice for those who follow a restricted diet. In this article, we will guide you through a simple and easy recipe to cook Samo Rice, which will leave you craving for more.
Gather the ingredients
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients to cook Samo Rice. The ingredients you will need include:
– 1 cup of Samo Rice
– 2 cups of water
– 1 tablespoon of ghee (clarified butter)
– 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
– 1 tablespoon of chopped green chilies
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– A handful of chopped coriander leaves
– Salt to taste
Prepare the Samo Rice
To start cooking Samo Rice, begin by rinsing the rice thoroughly under running water to remove any impurities. Then, soak it in water for about 15 minutes. This step helps in softening the rice grains and allows them to cook evenly.
Tempering the rice
In a pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Once the ghee is hot, add the cumin seeds and let them splutter. This adds a beautiful aroma to the rice. Next, add the chopped green chilies and grated ginger, and sauté them for a minute or two until they release their flavors.
Cooking the rice
Drain the soaked Samo Rice and add it to the pan. Stir well to coat the rice with the tempered spices. Add salt to taste and mix it well. Then, pour in the water and give it a gentle stir. Place a lid on the pan and let the rice cook on low heat for about 15-20 minutes or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is fluffy.
Fluff and serve
Once the Samo Rice is cooked, remove the lid and fluff it gently with a fork. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves to add a burst of freshness and color to the dish. Serve the hot and flavorful Samo Rice as a main course or as a side dish with yogurt or any accompanying vrat curry of your choice.
Variations of Samo Rice
Samo Rice can be prepared in various ways to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
Samo Vegetable Pulao
To make a delicious Samo Vegetable Pulao, add a handful of chopped mixed vegetables like carrots, peas, beans, and bell peppers to the tempering along with the rice. Cook everything together until the rice and vegetables are tender. This pulao is not only visually appealing but also adds a nutritious touch to your meal.
Samo Rice Khichdi
Samo Rice Khichdi is a comforting and wholesome meal that can be enjoyed during fasting periods. To make this khichdi, follow the same process of tempering as mentioned above and then add soaked and drained samo rice along with soaked moong dal (split green gram). Cook everything together by adding enough water, and you will have a warm and satiating khichdi in no time.
Samo Rice Kheer
If you have a sweet tooth, Samo Rice Kheer is a must-try dessert. To make this delectable kheer, cook the soaked samvat rice in milk on low heat until it turns soft and creamy. Add sugar, cardamom powder, and some nuts of your choice to enhance the flavor. Serve the kheer warm or chilled, and enjoy the rich and indulgent taste.
Conclusion
Samo Rice is a versatile and healthy grain that can be incorporated into various dishes. With its numerous health benefits and easy cooking process, it has become a favorite choice among those who observe fasting or vrat. By following the simple recipe and variations mentioned above, you can create delicious and satisfying meals using Samo Rice. So, go ahead and give it a try to enjoy the delightful flavors of this ancient grain.