Curried Basmati Rice
Ingredients:
1 cup basmati rice
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, minced
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 cup frozen peas
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
Rinse the Rice:
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
Sauté Aromatics:
In a large pot or saucepan, heat the vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add Spices:
Stir in the curry powder, ground turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices are toasted and fragrant.
Cook the Rice:
Add the rinsed basmati rice to the pot and stir to coat the rice with the spice mixture.
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Add Peas:
Stir in the frozen peas, cover, and let the rice sit for an additional 5 minutes to steam and heat the peas through.
Season and Serve:
Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with lemon wedges, if desired.