Easy Green Pea & Cilantro Basmati Rice Recipe – Indian Flavors

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Easy Green Pea & Cilantro Basmati Rice Recipe – Indian Flavors

Introduction

There’s just something so comforting about a warm bowl of fragrant rice, isn’t there? This Green Pea & Cilantro Basmati Rice is a staple in my kitchen – it’s quick, easy, and bursting with fresh flavors. I first made this when I was craving something simple yet satisfying, and it’s been a go-to ever since. It’s perfect as a side dish with your favorite Indian curries, or even enjoyed on its own for a light meal. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! It’s ready in under 30 minutes, requires minimal effort, and uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Plus, the combination of fluffy basmati rice, sweet green peas, and vibrant cilantro is simply irresistible. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and a fantastic way to add a little bit of India to your table.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful rice:

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 3 green cardamom pods
• 2 black cardamom
• 3 cloves
• 1 medium onion
• 1 green chili
• 1.5 cups green peas
• 2-3 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• 1.5 cups water (350ml)
• 0.5 teaspoon salt (2.5g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference:

• Basmati Rice: Choosing the Right Grain Look for aged basmati rice – it’s longer, fluffier, and has a more pronounced aroma. I prefer the extra-long grain variety.
• Spices: The Aromatic Foundation – Bay Leaf, Cardamom, Clove & Cumin These spices are the heart of the flavor. Don’t skimp! Using whole spices really elevates the taste.
• Oil: Selecting the Best Oil for Flavor I usually use vegetable oil, but you can also use ghee for a richer, more traditional flavor. About 30ml is perfect.
• Green Peas: Fresh or frozen both work beautifully. If using frozen, no need to thaw them beforehand!

Regional Variations: Exploring Different Rice Preparations in India

Rice is a cornerstone of Indian cuisine, and there are countless ways to prepare it! In South India, you’ll find fragrant lemon rice and coconut rice. Further north, dishes like Jeera Rice (cumin rice) and Yakhni Pulao are popular. This Green Pea & Cilantro Rice is a lovely, versatile option that fits right in with the diverse world of Indian rice dishes.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get down to business!

1. First, give your basmati rice a good rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps achieve that perfect fluffy texture. Then, soak it in water for about 30 minutes. This step is key! After soaking, drain the rice well.
2. Now, heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the bay leaf, cumin seeds, green cardamom, black cardamom, and cloves. Sauté for about 30 seconds, until you can smell that wonderful aroma filling your kitchen.
3. Next, add the sliced onion and chopped green chili. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn a lovely golden brown. A pinch of salt helps them along!
4. Stir in the green peas and chopped cilantro. Cook for just a minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Pour in the water and add the salt. Bring everything to a boil.
6. Gently add the drained rice to the boiling water. Give it a gentle stir.
7. Cover the pan and cook on medium heat for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, check the rice for doneness. If it’s still a little hard, extend the cooking time by another 5 minutes.
8. Finally, fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and serve hot! It’s amazing with raita (yogurt dip) or your favorite curry.

Expert Tips

Let’s make sure your rice turns out perfect every time!

• Achieving Perfectly Fluffy Rice The key is the rice-to-water ratio and avoiding over-stirring.
• Soaking Rice: Why It Matters Soaking helps the rice cook evenly and become fluffier. Don’t skip this step!
• Spice Bloom: Maximizing Flavor Release Sautéing the spices in oil releases their essential oils, creating a more flavorful dish.
• Avoiding Sticky Rice: Common Mistakes & Solutions Rinsing the rice thoroughly and avoiding over-stirring are crucial for preventing stickiness.

Variations

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

• Vegan Adaptation: This recipe is already naturally vegan!
• Gluten-Free Confirmation: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
• Spice Level Adjustment: Mild to Spicy Adjust the amount of green chili to your liking. For a milder flavor, remove the seeds from the chili.
• Festival Adaptation: Serving During Special Occasions This rice is lovely served during festivals like Diwali or Eid, alongside a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. My family loves it with a rich butter chicken!

Serving Suggestions

This rice is incredibly versatile. Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve it:

• With Dal Makhani (black lentil curry)
• Alongside Chicken Tikka Masala
• As a base for a flavorful Biryani
• Simply with a dollop of yogurt and a side of pickles

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

• What is the best way to rinse basmati rice? Gently swirl the rice in a bowl of cold water, then drain. Repeat this process 3-4 times, until the water runs clear.
• Can I use frozen peas directly from the freezer? Yes, absolutely! No need to thaw them beforehand.
• What if I don’t have black cardamom? Can I substitute it? Black cardamom has a smoky flavor that’s hard to replicate. If you don’t have it, you can omit it, or add a tiny pinch of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
• How can I adjust the salt level in this recipe? Start with the recommended amount and taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
• Can this rice be made in an Instant Pot or rice cooker? Yes! For an Instant Pot, use a 1:1.25 rice-to-water ratio and cook on high pressure for 3 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural pressure release. For a rice cooker, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for basmati rice.