Onion Rice Recipe
Onion Rice is a simple recipe that improves the flavor of any meal and helps you feel warmer. This recipe is a good mix of easy and tasty. It has golden caramelized onions, fragrant spices, and long-grain rice. It’s great for lunch boxes, hectic weeknights, or as a side dish with curries, daal, or grilled vegetables. Using high-quality rice from Keshar Kali makes sure that every grain is fluffy, smells good, and tastes real.
Ingredients
For Rice
- 1½ cups basmati rice (preferably Keshar Kali Basmati)
- 3 cups water or vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
For Onion Masala
- 2 tbsp ghee or oil
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 4–5 green cardamom pods
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ tsp turmeric powder (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh coriander leaves, chopped
Nutritional Insights
Onions are a very healthy vegetable since they are full of vitamins and minerals that are good for your health. They provide proper amounts of vitamin C and vitamin B6, which help boost immunity, support metabolism, and maintain healthy skin and nerves. In addition, onions contain essential minerals like potassium and manganese, important for heart health and enzyme function.
Onions are also a major source of quercetin, the best antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. Studies show that onions contain approximately 300 mg of quercetin per kilogram, making them one of the richest dietary sources of this beneficial compound.
Steps to Prepare Onion Rice
1. Prep the Rice
Rinse the rice until the water runs nearly clear. Soak for 30 minutes; drain well just before cooking.
2. Caramelize the Onions
Ghee (or oil) should be heated in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a small teaspoon of salt, and sauté until golden brown, turning occasionally. Caramelization produces a delicious scent.
3. Spice Tempering
In the same pan, push onions aside a bit, add cumin seeds, cardamom pods, and bay leaf. Let the spices sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant. If using turmeric, add it now.
4. Cook the Rice
Add the drained rice; sauté gently for 1 minute so it gets coated with the onion-spice mixture. Then pour in water or broth, salt as needed. Bring to boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover it with a lid, and cook 15-18 minutes until the rice is done but not mushy.
5. Finishing Touches
Turn off the heat; let the rice rest covered for 5 minutes. Remove lid, fluff with a fork. Garnish with fresh coriander.
6. Serve
Serve hot. Pairs well with daal, vegetable curry, or simple yoghurt raita.
Variations & Tips
- Use brown rice for extra fiber but increase cooking time and liquid.
- Add peas or cashews for a richer version.
- Replace ghee with olive oil for a lighter alternative.
- Cook in pressure cooker or Instant Pot for convenience.
Conclusion:
Onion Rice is quick, wholesome, and flavorful—perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. With just onions, rice, and a few spices, you can create a dish that pairs with almost anything. For best results, use Keshar Kali’s premium basmati rice to achieve authentic taste and texture.
Ready to try more? Visit the Keshar Kali Recipes page to discover traditional favorites and new inspirations.
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