| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 265 | 8g | 1g | 48g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 2g | 3g | 5g | 0.7g |
I have a deep-rooted love for Ajwain Rice: A Rice dish with ajwain flavor. There’s something incredibly comforting about its unique aroma, the soft grainy texture, and the delightful mix of spices that dance on your taste buds with every bite. It’s a recipe that eloquently marries my culinary know-how with my passion for experimentation in the kitchen.
A Culinary Love Letter to Ajwain Rice
If you’re not yet familiar with ajwain, it’s a spice known for its subtle thyme-like flavor with a hint of peppery warmth. Intriguingly, ajwain seeds are rich in fiber and antioxidants, potentially showing benefits in digestion and heart health, among others (source). Their unique taste adds a new dimension to the traditionally comforting rice dish, elevating it to a gourmet experience.
When cooking this dish, I couldn’t help but be reminded of my times spent cooking game meats and trout around campfires back in the Colorado mountains. This recipe, while rooted in Indian cuisine, reminded me of those simple, yet hearty, meals cooked in the wilderness – where every ingredient mattered.
Pairing Perfection and Serving Suggestions
Ajwain Rice is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with many other recipes. It might seem unconventional, but I find that it accompanies game meats wonderfully. The aromatic flavor profile of ajwain rice creates a perfect balance when served alongside a robust venison roast or even a simple trout fillet. If you’re a vegetarian or prefer plant-based meals, worry not. This flavorful rice dish is a perfect companion to a rich lentil curry or a refreshing cucumber raita.
The final touch of finely chopped cilantro added for garnish amplifies the freshness of the dish, and the side of lemon is there for those who like a little tanginess to complement the warm ajwain flavors.
What I love most about this recipe is its ability to transform a simple rice dish into something extraordinarily flavorful and healthful. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or having it for a comforting solo supper, Ajwain Rice is a testament to the beauty of spiced, flavorful food.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups Basmati rice
- 4 cups Water
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon Ajwain (carom seeds)
- 1 large Onion, finely chopped
- 2 Green chilies, finely chopped
- 1 inch Ginger, minced
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 2 tablespoons Cilantro, finely chopped for garnish
- 1 Lemon, optional for serving
Method
Step One
Begin by rinsing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This will remove any excess starch. Then, soak the rice in 4 cups of water for about 30 minutes.
Step Two
While the rice is soaking, heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the ajwain seeds and stir until they begin to sizzle and release their aroma.
Step Three
Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and cook until they become soft and translucent, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5 minutes.
Step Four
Next, add the chopped green chilies, minced ginger, and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously.
Step Five
Stir in the turmeric powder and salt. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step Six
Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pan. Stir well to ensure the rice is thoroughly coated in the spice mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Step Seven
Pour in 4 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer until the rice is tender and all the water has been absorbed. This should take about 15 minutes. Try not to stir the rice too much during this stage to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Step Eight
Once the rice is cooked, fluff it gently with a fork. Garnish with the finely chopped cilantro just before serving. Serve the Ajwain Rice with a wedge of lemon, if desired.
