Indian-Style Rice

Indian-Style Rice – A Flavorful and Easy Dish

Enjoy this Indian-Style Rice recipe with your family and friends! It's simple to make and absolutely delicious to eat. We used one of our favorite brands, Royal Basmati Rice, known for its long, fragrant grains that pair beautifully with bold Indian spices. This dish makes a great side for grilled chicken, curries, or even as a standalone meal.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 7 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 27 minutes

• Servings: 6

Ingredients for Indian-Style Rice

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 1 ½ cups Royal Basmati Rice

• 1 (14-ounce) can coconut milk

• 1 ¼ (14-ounce) cans chicken stock

• ½ teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon ground coriander

• 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon ground turmeric

• 1 bay leaf

• ½ cup golden raisins

• ¾ cup cashew halves

Ingredient Highlights

• Royal Basmati Rice: Known for its long grains and aromatic flavor.
• Coconut Milk: Adds creaminess and richness.
• Golden Raisins & Cashews: Provide a sweet and nutty contrast to the spices.

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Temper the Spices

Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the dry spices, cumin, coriander, red pepper flakes, salt, turmeric and temper for about a minute. TIP: Tempering the spices helps draw out their flavor and deepen their impact in a dish.

Step 2: Toast the Rice

Stir in rice, and cook for 2 minutes.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Mix-Ins

Pour in the coconut milk, chicken stock, golden raisins, and cashew halves. Gently Stir and combine.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Bring to a boil, then cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook until rice is tender for about 20 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm. Pair with grilled chicken or enjoy it as a standalone dish.

Chef’s Tips

✅ For a Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken stock for vegetable stock.

✅ Enhance the Aroma: Add a cinnamon stick or cardamom pods while tempering the spices.

✅ For Extra Flavor: Drizzle with a little ghee or butter before serving.

✅ Want More Texture? Top with toasted coconut flakes or pomegranate seeds for a fun twist.

Flavor Variations

• Vegetable Biryani Style: Add diced carrots, peas, and bell peppers for a more colorful and nutritious dish.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add chopped green chilies for extra heat.
• Citrusy Twist: Add a splash of fresh lemon juice before serving to brighten up the flavors.
• Garlic Lovers: Sauté minced garlic with the spices for a deeper, savory taste.

Perfect Pairings

• Grilled Chicken: Complements the warm spices and creamy texture.
• Curry Dishes: Pair with chicken curry or vegetable korma for a complete Indian-inspired meal.
• Salads: Serve alongside a crisp cucumber and tomato salad for a refreshing contrast.

Looking for the perfect main dish to serve with this fragrant rice? Try our Lamb Chop & Roasted Potatoes, a hearty and flavorful complement to this dish.

FAQs

Can I use regular white rice instead of basmati rice?

While you can use regular white rice, basmati rice is recommended for this recipe because of its distinct aroma, long grains, and fluffy texture. If using regular white rice, the cooking time and liquid ratio may need to be adjusted.

Can I make this rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the rice ahead of time. Let it cool and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a covered pan with a little bit of water or stock to keep it moist.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, to make this dish vegan, substitute the chicken stock with vegetable stock, and ensure that the cashews are unsweetened. The coconut milk already adds a rich, creamy texture suitable for vegan diets.

How do I prevent the rice from being too sticky?

Basmati rice naturally tends to be fluffy and non-sticky. To prevent it from being too sticky, rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. Avoid stirring it too much while cooking.

Can I cook this rice in a rice cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes, you can cook this rice in a rice cooker or Instant Pot. For the rice cooker, simply follow the regular instructions but add the spices and other ingredients in the appropriate order. For an Instant Pot, use the sauté function to temper the spices, then add the rice and liquids and cook on high pressure for about 6 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain freshness. Reheat thoroughly before serving.