Indian Ghee Rice

Elevate your mealtime with the rich aroma and flavor of Indian Ghee Rice, a classic delicacy that pairs perfectly with any curry or raita. This fragrant rice dish is crafted with premium basmati rice and infused with the luxurious essence of ghee, along with a medley of warm, whole spices like cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and cumin. Topped with golden-fried cashews, sweet raisins, and caramelized onions, this dish balances savory and sweet notes beautifully. With just 30 minutes of effort, Indian Ghee Rice transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful, restaurant-style side dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. Ideal for festive occasions or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress with its authentic taste and irresistible aroma.

Nutriscore Rating: 62/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Basmati rice
• 2 cups Water
• 3 tablespoons Ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 piece Bay leaf
• 1 inch Cinnamon stick
• 4 pieces Cloves
• 3 pieces Green cardamom pods
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 10 pieces Cashews
• 1 tablespoon Raisins
• 1 medium Onion
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 20-30 minutes, and then drain well.

Step 2

Slice the onion thinly and set it aside.

Step 3

In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee over medium heat. Add the cashews and fry until golden brown. Remove the cashews and set them aside on a plate.

Step 4

In the same pan, add the raisins and fry until they puff up. Remove and set aside with the cashews.

Step 5

Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of ghee to the pan. Add the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cloves, green cardamom pods, and cumin seeds. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 6

Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown, stirring occasionally.

Step 7

Add the drained rice to the pan and gently sauté for 2-3 minutes to lightly toast the grains and coat them with the ghee and spices.

Step 8

Pour in 2 cups of water, and add salt. Stir gently to combine.

Step 9

Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a lid and let the rice cook for 12-15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed.

Step 10

Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to finish steaming.

Step 11

Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with the fried cashews, raisins, and optional cilantro.

Step 12

Serve hot as a side dish or simple main meal with raita or curry.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	923.4 grams (923.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	865

Total Fat 52.50g	67%
Saturated Fat 28.40g	142%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.20g
Cholesterol 109mg	36%
Sodium 2416mg	105%
Total Carbohydrate 91.00g	33%
Dietary Fiber 8.30g	30%
Total Sugars 17.50g
Protein 13.10g	26%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 200mg	15%
Iron 8mg	43%
Potassium 658mg	14%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 53.2%

Protein: 5.9%

Carbs: 40.9%