Rice is a staple for many of us. Quick and easy to cook, it goes with a variety of dishes or makes a great meal on its own. But if you’re getting bored of plain rice, or you’d simply like to liven it up a bit, here are some great ideas from the chefs at our Indian in South Kensington.
1. Pilaw-style rice
Indian spices can make a dish of Basmati rice so much more flavourful. Add a bay leaf, a cinnamon stick, cloves and cardamom to hot oil or ghee. Allow them to sizzle gently then add onion and garlic. Pour in water and add the rice, then cook until fluffy.
2. Garlic butter rice
This option is simple yet satisfying. Saute garlic then add it to melted butter and coat the rice in the mixture before cooking in stock. It only adds a couple of minutes to the overall cooking time and the result is delicious.
3. Coconut milk rice
Adding coconut milk to your rice gives it a sweeter, nutty flavour, making for a tasty accompaniment to vegetable or chicken dishes. Saute some grated ginger and garlic on a low heat then add coconut milk, water, and Jasmine or Basmati rice and cook until fluffy.
4. Saffron rice
Adding saffron to rice gives it a delicate, floral, earthy flavour. Grind up a pinch of saffron then add water and soak for a few minutes. Add a couple more unground threads to the water, then saute onion and Basmati rice in oil or ghee. Pour in the saffron liquid and add chicken or vegetable stock and cook until tender.
5. Lemon rice
Lemon rice is a staple of South India and has a fresh flavour and nutty aroma. Cook plain rice in a pan then drain. While it cools, saute some mustard seeds, curry leaves and chopped ginger gently in oil, then add some ground turmeric and salt, and two tablespoons of water. Once the water has evaporated, take the mixture off the heat and add to the cooled rice. Squeeze lemon juice over, stir and serve.
6. Tomato rice
Aromatic and comforting, tomato rice is quick and easy, and makes a great meal on its own. Start by toasting cashew nuts, then removing them from the pan and gently cooking cinnamon, cloves, a bay leaf and cardamom. Add onions and let them soften, then add chopped tomatoes and turmeric. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and mushy, then add water and rice and cook until the water is absorbed.
Enjoy flavoursome rice in London
If you love fragrant and delicious rice dishes and you’re looking for Indian places in London that serve the very best examples, head to Little India today. Our Indian in London’s South Kensington has a range of tempting rice dishes, from pilaw to biryani, as well as an array of authentic curries and specials. Reserve your table today and enjoy a taste of India made with the freshest ingredients.
