Amla Rice Recipe – Authentic Indian Gooseberry & Peanut Fried Rice

Last Updated on 6 months ago by Neha Deshmukh

Amla Rice Recipe – Authentic Indian Gooseberry & Peanut Fried Rice

Hey everyone! If you’re looking for a flavorful, healthy, and slightly tangy rice dish, you have to try this Amla Rice. It’s a family favorite, and honestly, it’s one of those recipes that just feels like a warm hug in a bowl. I first made this when I was trying to incorporate more superfoods into our diet, and the unique taste totally won us over. It’s surprisingly easy to make, and the combination of amla, peanuts, and a simple tempering is just divine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Amla Rice isn’t just delicious; it’s packed with goodness! It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the benefits of amla (Indian gooseberry), which is a powerhouse of Vitamin C. Plus, the crunchy peanuts add a lovely texture, and the tempering gives it that authentic Indian flavor we all crave. It’s a quick weeknight meal, perfect for when you want something satisfying and healthy without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this amazing Amla Rice:

• 4 Amla or Indian Gooseberry
• 2 cups Cooked Rice (about 300g)
• 1 tablespoon Roasted Groundnuts or peanuts (approx. 15g)
• 2 tablespoon Sesame Oil (approx. 30ml)
• ½ teaspoon Mustard seeds or Rai (approx. 2.5g)
• ½ teaspoon Chana Dal (approx. 2.5g)
• 1-2 Chopped Green Chilies (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1-2 Whole Red chillies
• ½ teaspoon Turmeric powder (approx. 2.5g)
• A pinch Asafoetida or hing
• Few Curry Leaves
• Salt to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about these ingredients for a sec!

• Amla: This is the star! Amla is incredibly rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants. It has a unique tart flavor that really brightens up the rice. Don’t worry if it’s a little sour – that’s what makes it special!
• Sesame Oil: I love using sesame oil for tempering. It adds a beautiful nutty aroma and flavor that complements the amla perfectly. You can use other oils, but sesame oil really elevates the dish.
• Regional Variations: The tempering (the spiced oil) can vary a lot depending on the region. Some people add urad dal (black lentils) or even a tiny bit of sugar for balance. Feel free to experiment!
• Rice Choice: Traditionally, this is made with short-grain rice, but any cooked rice works well. Leftover rice is perfect for this!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, rinse and grate the fresh amla using a box grater. Don’t forget to discard the seeds! Set the grated amla aside.
2. Now, heat the sesame oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and chana dal. Wait for the mustard seeds to crackle – that’s when you know the oil is ready.
3. Add the chopped green chilies, whole red chilies, asafoetida, and curry leaves. Fry for a minute or so until everything is fragrant and the dal turns golden brown. This is where the magic happens!
4. Stir in the grated amla and sauté for 2-3 minutes. This helps blend the flavors and mellows out the amla’s tartness.
5. Next, mix in the turmeric powder and roasted peanuts. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
6. Add the cooked rice and salt. Gently combine all the ingredients on low heat for 1-2 minutes, making sure everything is well mixed.
7. Finally, remove from heat and serve warm. It’s delicious on its own, but even better with a side of raita or papad!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcook the amla! You want it to retain a little bit of its texture.
• If you don’t have roasted peanuts, you can quickly dry roast them in a pan until they’re golden brown.
• Adjust the amount of green chilies to your liking. I like a little kick, but you can use less if you prefer a milder flavor.

Variations

• Vegan Adaptation: This recipe is already naturally vegan!
• Spice Level Adjustment: For a milder flavor, reduce or omit the green chilies and whole red chilies. If you like it spicy, add a pinch of red chili powder along with the turmeric.
• Festival Adaptations: This is a lovely dish to make for Makar Sankranti or Pongal – it’s a festive and flavorful addition to your celebrations. My grandmother always made a slightly sweeter version for Pongal!

Serving Suggestions

Amla Rice is fantastic on its own, but here are a few ideas to complete your meal:

• Raita: A cooling cucumber raita is the perfect accompaniment.
• Papad: Crispy papads add a nice crunch.
• Dal: A simple dal (lentil soup) makes it a complete and satisfying meal.
• Pickle: A tangy Indian pickle adds another layer of flavor.

Storage Instructions

Leftover Amla Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

FAQs

Is Amla Rice good for health?

Absolutely! Amla is a nutritional powerhouse, and this rice dish is a great way to get your daily dose of Vitamin C and antioxidants.

Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?

Yes, definitely! Leftover rice is actually ideal for this recipe. It helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

What is the best type of rice to use for Amla Rice?

Traditionally, short-grain rice is used, but any cooked rice will work. Basmati rice is also a good option.

Can I add vegetables to Amla Rice?

You can! Peas, carrots, or beans would be lovely additions. Add them along with the amla and sauté for a few minutes.

How can I adjust the sourness of the Amla in this recipe?

If you find the amla too sour, you can add a tiny pinch of sugar to balance the flavors. You can also blanch the grated amla for a minute before adding it to the pan.

Enjoy making this Amla Rice! I hope it becomes a favorite in your home too. Let me know how it turns out in the comments below!