Best Easy Coriander Rice Recipe

Coriander Rice is a flavorful Indian rice dish with aromatic spices and a distinct regional character. This vegetarian preparation is a versatile family side dish that pairs well with curries and raita.

Cook 35 min Difficulty EASY 250 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • Basmati rice 1 cup
  • Fresh coriander leaves 1 cup
  • Yellow onion 1 small
  • Green chili 1 piece
  • Ginger 1 inch
  • Garlic cloves 2 cloves
  • Water 1.75 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • Vegetable oil 2 tbsp
  • Cumin seeds 1 tsp
  • Cloves 2 pieces
  • Cinnamon stick 1 inch
  • Bay leaf 1 piece
  • Salt 0.75 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 44 g 70%
Protein 5 g 8%
Fat 6 g 22%
Serving size 180g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly until the water runs clear, then soak in water for 20 minutes and drain well.

  2. 2

    Grind the fresh coriander leaves, green chili, ginger, and garlic together to make a smooth paste; add a splash of water if needed.

  3. 3

    Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat; add cumin seeds, cloves, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf, allowing them to sizzle and release aroma for about 30 seconds.

  4. 4

    Add the finely chopped onion and sauté over medium heat until translucent and lightly golden, stirring occasionally.

  5. 5

    Stir in the coriander paste and cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant, then add the drained rice and toast gently with the seasonings for 1–2 minutes without breaking the grains.

  6. 6

    Pour in measured water and salt, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to the lowest setting, cover, and simmer for 12 minutes until rice is tender and water absorbed.

  7. 7

    Remove from heat and let the pot stand, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork. Discard whole spices before serving.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The key ingredient in this recipe is the fresh coriander leaves, which infuse the rice with a unique herbal aroma and vibrant flavor that define the dish's character. Blended with green chili, ginger, and garlic, coriander creates a fresh, zesty base that pairs beautifully with the mild basmati rice.
Q. How do you prevent the rice from becoming mushy or sticking together?
To achieve perfectly separated grains, it's important to rinse and soak the rice and then drain it well before cooking. Toasting the drained rice with the coriander paste and seasonings over medium heat helps coat and strengthen the grains. Simmer the rice over low heat with the lid on, and let it rest after cooking before fluffing; this method prevents mushiness and ensures a fluffy outcome.
Q. What flavor do the whole spices add to coriander rice?
The combination of cumin seeds, cloves, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf adds depth and warmth to the rice. These whole spices release their essential oils when sautéed in oil, creating an aromatic base that balances the fresh taste of coriander, making the dish fragrant and inviting.
Q. What are the nutrition facts for each serving?
Each serving of Coriander Rice (180g) contains about 250 kcal, with 44g carbohydrates (70% of calories), 5g protein (8%), and 6g fat (22%). This makes it a lighter vegetarian side dish with a primary energy contribution from complex carbs.
Q. Is this Coriander Rice suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, the entire recipe is vegetarian, as it contains no meat, poultry, or seafood. The primary ingredients are rice, fresh herbs, select vegetables, and spices, making it a great choice for those following a vegetarian lifestyle.
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