How to make rice look impressive? :-)

When I make Indian food for a party, I always struggle with rice. I think making a Pulao is too rich and sides can’t be enjoyed with it. Jeera rice is nice, but sometimes it gets monotonous. Here’s something I do, to make the rice look lovely and it goes perfectly with just about any Indian side dish.

In 2 teaspoons of Ghee, add an inch of cinnamon, a few cardamoms and a bay leaf. To that add 2 cups of Basmati rice (pre soaked for about 15 minutes- not more than that) and mix well.  Let it roast a tad bit and then add hot water- 4 cups. Add a little salt- not too much (about 1/2 teaspoon for 2 cups of rice) and 2-3 pinches of sugar. Simmer and cover with lid. Takes about 15 minutes for the rice to cook.

Once done, transfer to the bowl you will serve in.

In a wok, add about 4-5 tablespoons of oil and fry thinly sliced onions (about 2 large ones) and let them brown.  drain on a kitchen towel. Fry a few cashews, raisins, and almond slivers.

Garnish rice with the fried onions, cashews, raisins and almond slivers.

Looks impressive, tastes great!

I’ve also done with by adding a few strands of saffron while cooking the rice, and it gives a completely different flavour.

Either ways, a nice change from the boring fried rice.