SPICY VEGETARIAN RICE

Rice is considered a staple in many parts of Asia. Believed to have first grown in ancient southern China and India, Rice growing was first brought to Japan possibly in the 1st century BC and became popular. From India, it spread to Southern Europe and Africa[Sourced from WIKI]. Staple or not it enjoys a celebrity status, whether you are having it everyday or occasionally. With its flexibility...it's unique. Have it steamed, fried, baked....whichever way you wish.

Piping hot white kernels of Rice with a curry of your choice accompanied by a salad is this diabetic self's favourite dream these days. An extreme rice lover that I was....I used to have it three times a day....gone are those golden days. I really thank my patience for living with two rice haters under one roof. I have to constantly think and work on how to feed some rice and vegetables to them. All your effort may go into vein if your family does not enjoy what you cook.

When the situation is this, a variety of pilaf and fried rices become a saviour. It has to be easy to prepare, with ingredients available in your kitchen. It was a Friday, with some paneer, broccoli, bell peppers, carrot and green peas available at home.... I could think of nothing but this quick and easy Masaledar / Mosholadar / Spicy Rice.

INGREDIENTS :

Cooked Rice : 2-3 coffee mugs
Carrot : 1
Red n Green Bell Pepper : 1/2 of each
Green Bean : 3-4

Crushed Peanuts : 1 tbsp
Green Chilli : 2-3
Coriander Powder : 1tsp
Cumin Powder : 1tsp
Garam Masala : 1 tsp
Kashmiri Mirch Powder : 1/2 tsp
Cumin Seed : 3 pinches
Salt : As required
Turmeric Powder : 1/4tsp
Oil : 3tbsp

METHOD :

Cut all the vegetables lengthwise, keep in separate bowls, add salt, mix well. Slit the green chillies.

Heat oil in a frying pan. Keep heat at medium to low. Temper oil with cumin seeds. Add the carrots and green beans, fry for 3-4 minutes. Add the bell peppers, fry for another 2 minutes.

Add all the powdered spices, slitted green chillies. Fold in well, keep stirring for a minute. 

Add the cooked rice, salt as required. Stir well for 2-3 minutes till all of the rice is nicely coated with the spiced vegetables.

Switch off the gas stove, it is done! Serve hot with yogurt / raita and pickle! My men definitely need fish or chicken on the side!