Ghee Rice (Aromatic and Flavorful)

Ghee rice is a classic Indian dish, simple to make yet rich in flavor, thanks to the aromatic spices and pure ghee. It’s perfect as a standalone meal or paired with curries and gravies.

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Ingredients:

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 tablespoons pure ghee
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3-4 cloves
• 2 green cardamom pods
• 1 bay leaf
• 5-6 cashews (optional)
• 1 tablespoon raisins (optional)
• 2 cups water
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions:

1. Wash and soak the rice:
   Rinse the basmati rice under running water until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for 20-30 minutes, then drain.
2. Heat the ghee:
   In a medium-sized pot or deep pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Once hot, add the cashews and raisins (if using) and fry until golden. Remove and set aside for garnish.
3. Saut\u00e9 the spices:
   In the same ghee, add the cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom, and bay leaf. Saut\u00e9 for a minute until the spices release their aroma.
4. Cook the onions:
   Add the sliced onions and saut\u00e9 until golden brown. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute.
5. Add the rice:
   Add the drained rice to the pot and gently stir to coat each grain with the ghee and spices. Toast the rice for 2-3 minutes for extra flavor.
6. Add water and cook:
   Pour in 2 cups of water and add salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is fully absorbed.
7. Fluff and garnish:
   Once cooked, remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with the fried cashews, raisins, and chopped coriander leaves.
8. Serve:
   Serve the ghee rice warm as a standalone dish or pair it with your favorite curry, dal, or raita.

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This ghee rice is fragrant, buttery, and full of delicate flavors that complement a wide variety of dishes. Let me know if you try it!