Pudina rice or mint rice is an easy-to-make, flavorful dish that can add some zest to your regular meals. This recipe uses mint leaves to provide a fresh, aromatic, and cool taste that complements the rice beautifully. Here's how to make this delicious pudina rice at home with simple ingredients.
Ingredients for Pudina Rice
- 1 cup Basmati Rice, washed and soaked for 30 minutes
- 1 bunch fresh Mint leaves, washed
- 1/2 bunch fresh Coriander leaves
- 2-3 Green Chilies
- 1-inch piece of Ginger
- 3-4 cloves Garlic
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp Cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp Mustard seeds
- 1/2 tsp Fennel seeds (Saunf)
- 1-2 Bay Leaves
- 4 Cloves
- 4-5 Black Peppercorns
- 1 small Cinnamon stick
- 1 Mace (Javitri)
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp Oil
- 1 tbsp Ghee (Clarified Butter) for enhanced flavor
- Juice from 1 Lemon
- 1/2 cup Frozen Peas (optional)
Steps to Prepare Pudina Rice
Step 1: Make the Mint Paste
- In a mixer or blender, combine mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chilies, ginger, and garlic with a little water. Blend into a smooth paste.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
- Boil water in a pot with salt and bay leaves.
- Add the soaked rice, stir gently, and cook until it’s 80-90% done. Drain the rice and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Tadka (Tempering)
- Heat oil in a pan. Add cumin, mustard, and fennel seeds; let them crackle.
- Add the whole spices (cloves, peppercorns, cinnamon, and mace).
- Once aromatic, add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Reduce heat, add turmeric powder, and mix well.
- Pour the mint paste, cook until the raw smell fades.
- If using peas, add them now. Sauté for a few minutes.
- Add lemon juice for a refreshing zing.
Step 5: Incorporate Rice
- Gently stir in the partially cooked rice, ensuring not to break the grains.
- Add a dollop of ghee for extra richness. Cover the pan and cook on low heat until the rice is fully cooked.
- Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
🌱 Note: Adjust the number of green chilies to control the spiciness of your pudina rice.
Serving Pudina Rice
- Pudina rice can be served hot as a main dish with raita, papad, or pickle on the side.
- For a complete meal, include a simple vegetable curry or some fried paneer (cottage cheese).
In this delightful recipe, we’ve explored how mint leaves and a few simple spices can transform plain rice into an aromatic delight. The coolness of mint along with the warmth of spices makes this dish a perfect balance of flavors. Make this easy pudina rice for your next family dinner, or when you’re craving something refreshing yet comforting.
Can I use store-bought mint paste instead of fresh mint?
+
Yes, but the flavor will not be as fresh or strong. Adjust the quantity to taste, keeping in mind that store-bought paste might be more concentrated.
What can I do with leftover pudina rice?
+
Turn it into a pudina rice pulao by adding more veggies, or use it to stuff parathas or sandwiches for a quick snack.
Is pudina rice suitable for children?
+
Absolutely, reduce the amount of green chilies for kids or serve it with a soothing raita to balance the heat.
