| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 200 | 10g | 5g | 23g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 1g | 4g | 0.4g |
It’s not every day that you come across a recipe like Kala Zeera Rice that seamlessly marries layers of flavors and textures, turning a simple meal into a memorable experience. In my hometown of Portland, Maine, I’m more accustomed to crafting seafood dishes emblematic of New England’s Atlantic coast. However, my culinary journey has taken me far and wide, opening my eyes—and palate—to a myriad of global flavors.
Kala Zeera Rice is one such dish that captured my heart immediately. What I adore about this recipe is its rich medley of spices and the surprising fresh notes brought in by ingredients like pomegranate seeds and cilantro. The tender basmati rice serves as the perfect canvas, absorbing the earthiness of kala zeera, the warmth of ground coriander, cumin, and the aromatic notes of ginger and garlic. It’s like a symphony where each component plays its notes perfectly, yet unites harmoniously into a beautiful culinary score.
Healthier Than It Looks
We often overlook the health benefits in our pursuit of flavor. Kala Zeera Rice not only satisfies the taste buds but is also loaded with nutritious elements. Black cumin seeds are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger and garlic are natural immune boosters, while the variety of spices provide an array of other health benefits from aiding digestion to boosting metabolism. Add to this the richness of pomegranate seeds, which are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, and you have a dish that’s as good for your body as it is for your soul.
Perfect for Family Dinners and Gatherings
As a mother of two, I’m always looking for recipes that please not just me but also my daughters, Erin and Samantha. This dish works wonderfully as a wholesome family dinner option. The sweet touch of raisins and the crunch of toasted almonds make it kid-friendly while allowing the more sophisticated flavors to shine through for adult palates.
Kala Zeera Rice pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside grilled lamb kebabs or a hearty spiced chickpea stew for a complete meal. If you’re a fan of biryanis, you’ll find this dish comforting yet refreshingly different. It also works well as a standalone dish for a quick, yet satisfying, weeknight dinner.
If you’re someone who loves culinary explorations, this recipe offers a delightful departure from the usual. It’s an easy way to bring a taste of exotic flavors into your home without compromising on nutrition or time. So, why not give Kala Zeera Rice a try? It’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon kala zeera (black cumin seeds)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 cup toasted almonds, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Method
Step One
Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.
Step Two
In a medium pot, heat the ghee or vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the kala zeera (black cumin seeds) and sauté for about 1 minute, until the seeds begin to crackle and release their aroma.
Step Three
Add the finely chopped onion to the pot and sauté until the onion turns golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step Four
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the ground coriander, ground cumin, and ground turmeric. Stir well to combine the spices with the onion mixture.
Step Five
Add the drained rice to the pot and gently stir to coat the rice with the spice mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors.
Step Six
Pour in the water or vegetable broth and add the salt. Stir to combine. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
Step Seven
Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
Step Eight
Gently stir in the toasted almonds, raisins, and pomegranate seeds. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, if using. Serve warm and enjoy your Kala Zeera Rice!
