How to prepare Pudina Rice

Pudina Rice, also known as Mint Rice, is a flavorful and aromatic dish made with fresh mint leaves, rice and spices. It's a refreshing and light meal that can be served as a main dish or a side.

Here's a detailed recipe to prepare Pudina Rice at home:

Ingredients:

For the Rice:

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon oil or ghee
• Salt to taste

For the Pudina (Mint) Paste:

• 1 cup fresh mint leaves (pudina)
• 1/2 cup fresh coriander leaves
• 2-3 green chilies (adjust to taste)

• 1-inch piece ginger
• 3-4 garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons grated coconut (optional)
• 1 tablespoon water (for grinding)

For the Tempering:

• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

• Cook the Rice:
  • Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear.
  • In a pot, add 2 cups of water, rice, 1 tablespoon of oil or ghee and salt. Bring it to a boil.
  • Once the water starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot and let the rice cook for about 15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
  • Fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside to cool.
• Prepare the Pudina (Mint) Paste:
  • In a blender or food processor, combine the mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chilies, ginger, garlic, grated coconut (if using) and 1 tablespoon of water.
  • Blend to a smooth paste. Add a little more water if needed to help with blending. Set aside.
• Prepare the Tempering:
  • Heat 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee in a large pan or kadhai over medium heat.
  • Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them splutter.
  • Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
• Combine Everything:
  • Add the prepared mint paste to the pan with the onions. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the raw smell of the paste disappears.
  • Add turmeric powder, garam masala and coriander powder. Mix well and cook for another minute.
  • Add the cooked rice to the pan. Gently mix everything together, ensuring that the rice is evenly coated with the mint paste and spices.
  • Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the rice is heated through. Adjust salt to taste.

• Serve:
  • Transfer the Pudina Rice to a serving bowl.
  • Garnish with fresh mint leaves or coriander leaves if desired.
  • Serve hot with raita, pickle, or any curry of your choice.

Additional Tips:

• Rice Variations: You can use other types of rice like jeera rice or sona masoori if you don't have basmati rice.
• Vegetable Addition: For added nutrition, you can include vegetables like peas, carrots, or beans. Sauté them along with the onions before adding the mint paste.
• Nut Garnish: For a crunchy texture, garnish with roasted cashews or peanuts.

Enjoy your flavorful and aromatic Pudina Rice.

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