Jeera rice | Indian Cumin rice recipe
Jeera Rice is a simple, aromatic Indian dish made by tempering cumin seeds (jeera) in ghee or oil and cooking it with fluffy basmati rice. Lightly spiced, fragrant, and incredibly comforting, it's the perfect side dish for dals, curries, or even on its own with a spoonful of yogurt. Quick to make and packed with earthy flavor, Jeera Rice is a staple that turns everyday meals into something special.
Equipment
- Deep non-stick pan or kadai
- Fine mesh strainer (for washing rice)
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Ingredients
- Basmati rice 1 cup soaked 20 min, drained
- Water 1¾ cups
- Ghee or oil 1 tbsp
- Cumin seeds 1½ tsp
- Bay leaf optional 1
- Cloves optional 2
- Slit green chili optional 1
- Salt To taste
- Fresh coriander For garnish
Instructions
- Rinse & Soak: Wash rice till the water runs clear. Soak for 20 minutes. Drain.
- Sizzle the Cumin: Heat ghee in a deep pan. Add cumin. Let it crackle and perfume your kitchen. (Add bay leaf & cloves here if using!)
- Toast the Rice: Add drained rice, stir gently for a minute.
- Water Works: Pour in water and salt. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Lid Down, Heat Low: Cover and simmer on low for 12–15 minutes.
- Let It Chill: Turn off heat. Keep covered for 10 minutes. Then fluff with a fork and garnish.
Notes
- Soak your basmati rice for 20–30 minutes to get long, fluffy grains.
- Use aged basmati rice for best aroma and non-sticky texture.
- Let cumin sizzle and crackle fully in hot ghee/oil to release its earthy aroma.
- Don't over-stir after adding rice – it breaks the grains.
- Add a few drops of lemon juice or vinegar while boiling to enhance white color.
- Cook rice on low flame after boiling, covered – this steams it perfectly.
- Use ghee for restaurant-style richness; oil for vegan version.
- Add whole spices (bay leaf, clove, cinnamon) for extra aroma if you like a spiced version.
- If reheating, sprinkle some water and microwave covered to avoid dryness.
- Serve with dal tadka, rajma, butter chicken, or cucumber raita for a complete meal!