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Bowl of fluffy jeera rice with cumin seeds and fresh cilantro garnish.

Jeera Rice (Cumin-Flavored Rice)

This simple yet flavorful jeera rice is made with fluffy basmati rice, toasted cumin seeds, and aromatic ghee. It’s the perfect accompaniment to dals, paneer curries, or any Indian meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a staple for both weeknight dinners and festive spreads.
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Indian
Servings: 4
Author: Shilpa

Equipment

  • Large pot with lid

Ingredients

  • 1½ cups basmati rice rinsed and soaked for 20 minutes
  • 2 tablespoons ghee
  • 1½ teaspoons cumin seeds
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Rinse the rice well until the water runs clear. Soak it in fresh water for 20 minutes. Drain the soaked rice and set aside.
  • Heat ghee in a large pot over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and toast for about 30 seconds, until fragrant and lightly golden.
  • Add the drained rice and mix gently to coat each grain in the ghee and cumin. Pour in the water and season with salt.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and cook for 12-15 minutes, until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
  • Remove from heat and let the rice rest for 5 minutes. Mix gently, garnish with cilantro, and serve hot with your favorite curry or dal.

Notes

  • Rice texture: Soaking the rice helps achieve the long, fluffy grains.
  • Stir gently: Avoid breaking the rice grains when mixing with ghee and cumin.
  • Aromatic boost: Add 1 bay leaf or 2–3 green cardamom pods to the ghee along with cumin for a richer aroma.

Nutrition

Calories: 322kcal | Carbohydrates: 56g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 19mg | Sodium: 595mg | Potassium: 93mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 10IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 32mg | Iron: 1mg
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