Quick And Easy Recipe for Delicious Beetroot Rice You Must Try

Beetroot rice is a wholesome dish made by blending cooked rice with spiced beetroot masala. Grated beetroot, onions, and spices are sautéed to create a flavorful base, which is then combined with rice. Garnished with coriander and lemon juice, it’s a nutritious and colorful meal. Ideal with raita or as a standalone dish, beetroot rice is both healthy and delicious.

Beetroot rice is a colorful and flavorful dish that combines cooked rice with beetroot and a blend of spices. The recipe starts with cooking the rice and preparing a beetroot masala using onions, tomatoes, and seasonings. Grated or chopped beetroot is sautéed with spices and then mixed with rice to create a vibrant dish. Garnishing with coriander, coconut, and lemon juice enhances the taste and freshness. This dish is not only delicious but also rich in nutrients and easy to make. Perfect for pairing with raita, papad, or a light curry, beetroot rice makes a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For Cooking the Rice:

• 1 cup basmati rice or any long-grain rice
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Beetroot Masala:

• 2 medium-sized beetroots (grated or finely chopped)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 1 medium tomato (finely chopped)
• 2 green chilies (slit)
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 2 tbsp oil or ghee
• 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1/2 tsp garam masala or biryani masala
• Salt to taste

For Garnish:

• 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
• 1 tbsp grated coconut (optional)
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Cook the Rice

• Rinse the rice thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear.
• In a pot, add the rinsed rice, water, and 1/2 tsp salt. Cook until the rice is tender but not mushy.
• Once cooked, spread the rice on a plate or tray to cool. This helps prevent clumping.

Step 2: Prepare the Beetroot

• Wash, peel, and grate the beetroots. Alternatively, you can finely chop them for a chunkier texture.
• Keep the grated or chopped beetroot aside.

Step 3: Make the Masala Base

• Heat oil or ghee in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
• Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add cumin seeds and curry leaves.
• Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
• Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté until the raw aroma disappears.
• Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and release oil.

Step 4: Cook the Beetroot

• Add the grated or chopped beetroot to the pan. Mix well with the masala.
• Sprinkle turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Stir to combine.
• Cover the pan and cook on low heat for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beetroot is tender and cooked through.

Step 5: Combine Rice and Beetroot Masala

• Once the beetroot is cooked, add the cooked rice to the pan.
• Gently toss the rice with the beetroot masala to coat the grains evenly without breaking the rice.
• Cook on low heat for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Add chopped coriander leaves and a splash of lemon juice for freshness.
• Optionally, garnish with grated coconut for added flavor.
• Serve hot with raita, papad, or a simple salad on the side.

Serving Suggestions

• With Raita: Pair beetroot rice with a cooling cucumber or mint raita.
• With Curry: Serve alongside a mild curry or dal for a complete meal.
• As Is: Enjoy it as a standalone dish for a quick, nutritious meal.

Tips for Perfect Beetroot Rice

• Use basmati rice for a fragrant and fluffy texture.
• Adjust spices and chili based on your heat tolerance.
• To save time, you can use pre-cooked rice.
• For extra protein, toss in boiled chickpeas or paneer cubes.

Beetroot rice is a visually stunning and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and full of nutrients. Enjoy this wholesome meal anytime.