Ghee Rice Recipe
If you’re looking for a simple yet indulgent rice dish that pairs beautifully with rich curries or can be enjoyed on its own, Ghee Rice is your answer. Made with aromatic basmati rice, golden ghee, and whole spices, this dish is a staple across South India and has won hearts for its simplicity and flavor.
What is Ghee Rice?
Ghee Rice (or Nei Choru in Malayalam) is a fragrant, lightly spiced rice dish cooked with generous amounts of ghee (clarified butter) and tempered with whole spices like cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom. It often features sautéed onions, cashews, and raisins, which add a sweet and nutty depth to the dish.
This rice is popular in Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, especially served at feasts, weddings, and special Sunday lunches.
Why You’ll Love It
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile – Can be paired with any curry, dal, or even eaten plain with papad and pickle.
- Kid-Friendly – Mild in spice and packed with flavor.
- Rich and Fragrant – Thanks to the use of ghee and whole spices.
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 tablespoons ghee
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 2–3 cloves
- 2 green cardamoms
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- 8–10 cashew nuts
- 1 tablespoon raisins (optional)
- 1¾ cups water
- Salt to taste
- A few fresh coriander leaves or fried onions for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the Rice
Wash basmati rice until the water runs clear. Soak for 20 minutes, then drain. - Temper the Spices
Heat ghee in a pan or pressure cooker. Add cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and cumin seeds. Sauté until aromatic. - Sauté Onions & Nuts
Add sliced onions and fry until golden brown. Add cashews and raisins, and sauté until cashews turn golden and raisins puff up. - Add Rice
Stir in the drained rice and sauté for 1–2 minutes to coat the grains in ghee and toast lightly. - Cook the Rice
Add water and salt. Cover and cook until rice is fluffy and water is absorbed (or pressure cook for 1 whistle and let pressure release naturally). - Garnish & Serve
Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with fried onions or chopped coriander.
What to Serve with Ghee Rice
- Vegetable Kurma
- Paneer Butter Masala
- Chicken Curry or Chicken Sukka
- Egg Curry
- Simple Dal Tadka
Even a plain bowl of curd or raita makes for a comforting meal.
Tips
- Use good quality ghee – The flavor of this dish relies heavily on the quality of ghee.
- Soak the rice – This ensures long, fluffy grains.
- Customize it – Add bay leaf, star anise, or mint leaves for variation.
Ghee rice is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of rich, comforting flavors in a minimalist form. Whether you’re hosting a festive meal or just need a quick fix on a busy day, this dish brings warmth and aroma to your table with every bite.
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