Description
Fragrant Basmati Rice with Savory Meat and Creamy Yogurt Drizzle
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs or beef, diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (to taste)
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water is clear. Soak the rice in fresh water for half an hour, then drain it well.
- In a large saucepan, warm the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until they release their aroma.
- Introduce the finely chopped onion to the pot, cooking until it turns a rich golden brown, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Incorporate the minced garlic and grated ginger, allowing them to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the diced meat to the pot, browning it evenly on all sides for about 5-6 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the coriander powder, garam masala, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Stir well and let the spices cook together for 2-3 minutes to enhance their flavors.
- Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil. Gently fold in the soaked and drained rice, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Once done, remove from heat and allow it to rest, covered, for another 10 minutes.
- While the rice is resting, prepare the yogurt sauce by mixing the yogurt and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.
- After resting, fluff the rice with a fork and serve it warm, generously topped with the yogurt sauce and garnished with fresh cilantro.
Notes
- Adjust the red chili powder according to your spice preference.
- For a richer flavor, you can use ghee instead of vegetable oil.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Pakistani
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Pakistani Spiced Rice with Meat and Yogurt Sauce