Indian Style Basmati Rice

Indian rice made with basmati rice, toasted whole spices, and fried onions has a fantastic flavor and makes the perfect side to Indian curry.

• Cooking Time: 35 mins
• Total Time: 35 mins
• Calories: 216 Calories

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 2 whole cloves
• 1 (2 inch) piece cinnamon stick
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 2 pods green cardamom
• 1 tablespoon cumin seed
• 2.5 cups water
• 1.5 cups basmati rice

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Place rice into a bowl with enough water to cover. Set aside to soak for 20 minutes.

Step 2

Gather all ingredients.

Step 3

In the last 10 minutes of soaking, heat oil in a large pot or saucepan over medium heat. Add cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves, then stir in cumin seed.

Step 4

Cook and stir until fragrant and toasted, about a minute. Add sliced onion and stir.

Step 5

Sauté until the onion is tender and a rich golden brown color, about 10 minutes.

Step 6

Drain water from rice, and stir into the pot. Cook and stir rice until lightly toasted, about 3 minutes.

Step 7

Add water and salt, and bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer until all the water has been absorbed, about 15 minutes.

Step 8

Let stand for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork before serving.