Imagine a side dish so aromatic and delicious that it transforms your entire meal from ordinary to extraordinary! Jeera Rice, the beloved Indian classic, is about to become your new kitchen superstar. With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of an Instant Pot, you'll create a fragrant rice dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Get ready to elevate your cooking game with this foolproof, restaurant-quality cumin rice that's both incredibly easy and mind-blowingly delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
- 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
- Salt to taste
- 2-3 green chilies (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
- Drain the rice completely and set aside. Pat the rice dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
- Turn on the Instant Pot and select the Sauté mode. Add ghee or oil and let it heat up for 30 seconds.
- Add cumin seeds to the hot ghee. Allow them to sizzle and become fragrant, which typically takes about 30-45 seconds. The seeds will start to pop and release their aromatic oils.
- If using green chilies, add them now and sauté for an additional 15-20 seconds.
- Add the rinsed and dried rice to the pot. Gently stir to coat the rice with ghee and cumin seeds, toasting it lightly for about 1 minute.
- Pour in the water and add salt to taste. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealing position, and switch to Manual/Pressure Cook mode.
- Cook on high pressure for 6-7 minutes. Allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes after cooking.
- After 5 minutes, carefully do a quick release of any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro leaves before serving.
- Serve hot as a side dish with dal, curry, or your favorite Indian main course.
Tips
- • Always use high-quality basmati rice for the best texture and flavor • Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and prevent clumping • Toast the cumin seeds until they're fragrant to maximize their flavor profile • Use ghee for an authentic taste, but vegetable oil works as a great alternative • Don't skip the natural pressure release - it helps the rice become perfectly fluffy • For extra flavor, you can add whole spices like a small cinnamon stick or a couple of cardamom pods • If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds from the green chilies or omit them entirely • Fluff the rice gently with a fork to keep the grains separate and light • Serve immediately for the best taste and texture
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
