Peanut Rice Recipe – Authentic Indian Kadai-Style with Dill & Coconut

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Peanut Rice Recipe – Authentic Indian Kadai-Style with Dill & Coconut

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal. And let me tell you, this Peanut Rice (Palli Menasi in Kannada!) is it. I first made this when I was craving something comforting and didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s become a regular in my house ever since – a perfect weeknight dinner or a lovely lunchbox treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just any peanut rice. It’s a vibrant, aromatic dish cooked in a kadai, which really brings out the flavors. The combination of crunchy peanuts, fresh dill, and grated coconut is simply divine. It’s easy to make, comes together in under 10 minutes, and is packed with flavor. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious Peanut Rice:

• 2 tbsp oil
• 2 tbsp peanuts
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 0.5 tsp urad dal (split black lentils)
• 0.5 tsp chana dal (split chickpeas)
• 0.5 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 dried red chili
• Few curry leaves (about 10-12)
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 2 green chilies, chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 0.5 capsicum (bell pepper), chopped
• 1 bunch dill leaves, finely chopped
• 3 cups cooked rice (about 450g)
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 0.5 tsp pepper powder
• 3 tbsp coconut, grated (about 30g)
• 0.5 lemon, juiced

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few things make this recipe extra special:

• Kadai: A kadai (Indian wok) is ideal because its curved bottom helps distribute heat evenly, giving the rice a lovely, slightly smoky flavor. But don’t worry if you don’t have one – a large frying pan will work just fine!
• Peanuts: I prefer using the smaller, reddish-brown peanuts for this recipe, as they have a more intense flavor. But any variety will do.
• Dill Leaves: Fresh dill is key here. It adds a bright, herbaceous note that really elevates the dish. Don’t skimp on it!
• Coconut: Freshly grated coconut is best, but desiccated coconut works in a pinch. If using desiccated, use about 2 tablespoons and add it a little earlier in the cooking process to allow it to rehydrate.
• Hing (Asafoetida): This adds a unique savory depth. A little goes a long way!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. Heat the oil in a large kadai (or frying pan) over medium heat. Add the peanuts and roast until they’re golden brown and crunchy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Set them aside.
2. In the same oil, add the mustard seeds. Let them splutter – that’s when you know they’re ready! Then, add the urad dal, chana dal, cumin seeds, hing, and dried red chili. Sauté for about 30 seconds, until the dals turn golden.
3. Add the curry leaves and let them sizzle for a few seconds. They’ll become super fragrant!
4. Now, add the grated ginger and chopped green chilies. Sauté for another 30 seconds, until the raw smell disappears.
5. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Add the chopped capsicum and cook until it’s slightly tender, around 2 minutes.
7. Mix in the finely chopped dill leaves and sauté for just a minute, until they’re aromatic. Don’t overcook them!
8. Add the cooked rice, salt, and pepper powder. Gently mix everything together, making sure the rice is well coated with the spices.
9. Stir in the grated coconut. Cover the kadai and cook on low heat for about 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
10. Finally, squeeze the lemon juice over the rice and mix well.

And that’s it! Your Peanut Rice is ready to be devoured.

Expert Tips

• Rice Consistency: Using slightly older rice (a day old) works best, as it tends to be less sticky.
• Don’t Overcrowd: If your kadai is small, cook in batches to ensure even cooking.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.

Variations

• My Mom’s Version: My mom always adds a pinch of turmeric powder for a beautiful golden color and extra health benefits.
• For the Kids: My little one isn’t a fan of too much spice, so I sometimes leave out the green chilies.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies like peas or carrots.

Vegan Adaptation

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

Gluten-Free Adaptation

This recipe is naturally gluten-free!

Spice Level Adjustment

• Mild: Reduce the number of green chilies to 1 or omit them altogether.
• Medium: Use 2 green chilies as per the recipe.
• Spicy: Add an extra green chili or a pinch of chili powder.

Festival Adaptations

This Peanut Rice is a fantastic addition to a simple Onam Sadya spread. It’s also perfect for a quick and easy lunchbox option any day of the week!

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Peanut Rice hot with a side of pickle (mango pickle is my favorite!) or raita. It also pairs well with papadums or a simple yogurt-based side dish.

Storage Instructions

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

FAQs

What type of rice is best for Peanut Rice?

Any long-grain rice like basmati or sona masuri works well. Slightly older rice is ideal as it’s less sticky.

Can I make this Peanut Rice ahead of time?

You can cook the rice ahead of time. However, it’s best to assemble and heat through the rice just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

How can I adjust the spice level of this recipe?

Adjust the number of green chilies or add a pinch of chili powder to control the spice level.

What is hing (asafoetida) and where can I find it?

Hing is a resin with a pungent smell that adds a savory depth to Indian dishes. You can find it in most Indian grocery stores, often in powder form.

Can I use frozen dill leaves instead of fresh?

While fresh dill is best, you can use frozen dill in a pinch. Use about half the amount as you would fresh dill.

Is it possible to make this recipe without a Kadai?

Absolutely! A large frying pan or wok will work just fine.

What side dishes complement Peanut Rice perfectly?

Pickle, raita, papadums, or a simple yogurt-based side dish are all great choices.

Enjoy! I hope you love this Peanut Rice as much as my family does. Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you!