Authentic Mint Rice Recipe – Indian Flavors & Fresh Herbs

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Authentic Mint Rice Recipe – Indian Flavors & Fresh Herbs

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for simple, flavorful dishes that can brighten up your mealtime. This Mint Rice (Pudina Chawal) is exactly that. I first made this when I was craving something light and refreshing, and it’s been a family favorite ever since. It’s a beautiful blend of fragrant basmati rice and a vibrant mint masala – seriously, the aroma alone is incredible! Let’s get cooking, shall we?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mint Rice isn’t just delicious; it’s incredibly easy to make. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a flavorful side dish, or even a light lunch. The fresh mint gives it such a lovely, cooling effect, which is especially welcome during warmer months. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up that bunch of mint from your garden!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this magic:

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 bunch of mint leaves (about 1 packed cup)
• 3 green chillies
• 5 garlic cloves
• ½ – 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons oil
• ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 dried red chillies
• 1 medium onion

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients – a few little tips can make all the difference!

Basmati Rice: Choosing the Right Grain

Basmati rice is key here. Look for long-grain basmati; it cooks up fluffy and separate, which is exactly what we want. I prefer aged basmati – it has a more pronounced aroma and cooks even better. (Around 180-200g of rice is a good measure).

Mint Leaves: Freshness and Flavor Profile

Fresh mint is non-negotiable! It’s what gives this rice its signature flavor. Make sure the leaves are vibrant green and fragrant. If you’re growing your own, even better! (Approximately 30-40g of mint leaves).

Green Chillies: Heat Level & Varieties

Green chillies add a lovely kick. I usually use medium-heat chillies, but feel free to adjust based on your preference. You can deseed them for a milder flavor. (Around 15-20g of green chillies).

Regional Variations in Spice Use

Interestingly, the use of green chillies varies across India. In some regions, they prefer a milder flavour, using fewer chillies or opting for Kashmiri chillies for colour without too much heat.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get down to business!

First, cook the basmati rice. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Then, combine it with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside.

While the rice is cooking, let’s make the mint masala. Roughly chop the mint leaves, green chillies, and garlic cloves. Add them to a blender with a little salt and blend into a smooth paste. Add a splash of water if needed to help it blend.

Now, heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and dried red chillies. Let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant – this is where the magic starts!

Next, add the sliced onion and cook until golden brown and softened. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Pour in the mint paste and cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the oil starts to separate from the mixture. This means the masala is cooked through and ready to go.

Finally, add the cooked rice to the pan and gently stir to combine with the mint masala. Be careful not to break the rice grains! Cook on low heat for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serve hot with a side of raita or your favorite pickle.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years to make this Mint Rice absolutely perfect:

Achieving Fluffy Rice Every Time

Rinsing the rice is crucial! It removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming sticky. Also, resist the urge to lift the lid while the rice is simmering – let the steam do its work.

Balancing the Spice Level

Taste as you go! Add green chillies gradually, and remember you can always add more, but you can’t take away.

Making the Mint Paste

For a really smooth paste, use a high-speed blender. If you don’t have one, you can finely chop the ingredients and pound them into a paste using a mortar and pestle – it’s a bit more work, but totally worth it!

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Mint Rice

This recipe is naturally vegan! Just ensure the oil you use is plant-based.

Gluten-Free Mint Rice

This recipe is also naturally gluten-free.

Spice Level Adjustments (Mild, Medium, Hot)

• Mild: Use 1 green chilli and remove the seeds.
• Medium: Use 2-3 green chillies.
• Hot: Use 4-5 green chillies and leave the seeds in.

Festival Adaptations (e.g., serving during Eid or special occasions)

My friend’s family always serves this during Eid with a delicious biryani. It’s a lovely addition to a festive spread!

Serving Suggestions

Mint Rice is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with:

• Dal Makhani
• Chicken Curry
• Vegetable Sabzi
• Raita (yogurt dip)
• Pickle

Storage Instructions

Leftover Mint Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

What type of rice is best for this recipe?

Basmati rice is the star here! Its long grains and fragrant aroma make it perfect for this dish.

Can I make the mint paste ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the mint paste a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

How do I adjust the spice level to my preference?

Start with fewer green chillies and taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can’t take away the heat!

What is the best way to reheat Mint Rice?

Gently reheat it in the microwave with a splash of water, or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Can I use other herbs alongside mint in this recipe?

Definitely! A little bit of coriander (cilantro) can add a lovely freshness. Just don’t overpower the mint flavor.

Enjoy this delightful Mint Rice! I hope it brings a little bit of Indian sunshine to your kitchen. Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you!