Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful side dish or even a light meal? Look no further than this vibrant Green Chili Rice recipe! This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or simply adding a delicious kick to your everyday meals. It's surprisingly healthy, packed with fresh flavors, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 ½ cups basmati rice, rinsed
- 3 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin powder
- ¼ teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
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Add the Chilies: Add the finely chopped green chilies and sauté for another minute, allowing their aroma to infuse the oil. Be careful not to burn the chilies, as this can make them bitter.
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Toast the Rice: Add the rinsed basmati rice to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. This step helps to toast the rice and enhance its flavor.
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Simmer the Rice: Pour in the vegetable broth (or water), turmeric powder, cumin powder, garam masala, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
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Fluff and Serve: Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice (optional) for an extra zing.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Green Chili Rice:
- Rinse your rice: Rinsing the rice before cooking helps remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier rice.
- Don't overcook the rice: Overcooked rice will be mushy. Follow the cooking time carefully and check for doneness.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, use fewer green chilies or choose a milder variety. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Experiment with other vegetables: Add other vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
Variations:
- Vegan Green Chili Rice: This recipe is naturally vegan.
- Spicy Green Chili Rice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
- Herby Green Chili Rice: Incorporate other fresh herbs like mint or parsley along with the cilantro.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 4-5 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45 grams
- Fat: Approximately 5-7 grams
This easy green chili rice recipe is a delicious and healthy addition to your cooking repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a quick dinner idea or a flavorful side dish staple in your home. Enjoy!