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These winter rice recipes provide warmth, comfort, and nourishment, making them perfect additions to your seasonal meals.
Rice can be an excellent addition to your winter menu when prepared with the right ingredients to bring warmth and nourishment
Rice has long been a staple in Indian kitchens, providing comfort and sustenance. Yet, as the winter chill sets in, many tend to avoid rice due to its perceived “cooling” effects. However, rice can be an excellent addition to your winter menu when prepared with the right ingredients to bring warmth and nourishment.
Yassir Bilgrami, Business Head, DD International, shares three comforting rice-based recipes that not only provide warmth but also satisfy your taste buds during the cold months.
Rice Kanji
A traditional, probiotic-rich drink from South India, Rice Kanji is ideal for both winter warmth and digestive health. Fermented rice, along with a dash of spices, makes this a go-to winter recipe, perfect for rejuvenating your stomach.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup rice
4 cups water
1/2 tsp grated ginger
1/4 tsp black pepper
Salt to taste
1 tsp ghee
Method:
Soak the cooked rice in a clay pot overnight.
In the morning, add curd, grated ginger, coriander, green chilies, pepper, and salt.
For tempering, heat ghee in a pan, add mustard seeds, curry leaves, and urad dal. Pour over the rice-curd mixture and mix well.
Vegetable Pulao
This vibrant and aromatic rice dish is a perfect winter comfort food. Loaded with seasonal vegetables, it’s a delicious and healthy way to enjoy a variety of veggies, making it a perfect pairing with yogurt or pickle.
Ingredients:
1 cup basmati rice
2 cups water
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrot, peas, beans)
1 onion, sliced
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp garam masala
Salt to taste
Method:
Heat oil in a pan, sauté cumin seeds and onions until golden.
Add mixed vegetables and rice, stir to combine. Add water and salt, then cook until rice is tender.
Serve warm with a side of curd or pickle.
Slow-Cooked Chicken, Fennel, and Rice Soup
This nourishing and creamy soup is perfect for those cold winter nights. Packed with protein, nutrients, and comforting flavors, it helps boost your immune system and satisfies cravings.
Ingredients:
500g chicken (bone-in pieces)
1/2 cup basmati rice
1 large fennel bulb, sliced
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1-inch ginger, grated
4 cups chicken broth or water
1 tsp cumin seeds
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1/2 tsp black pepper powder
Salt to taste
1 tbsp ghee or oil
Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
Method:
Heat ghee or oil in a large pot, sauté cumin seeds, onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
Add fennel, chicken, rice, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Stir well.
Pour in chicken broth or water, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 45-60 minutes until the chicken is tender and the rice is cooked.
Shred the chicken, adjust seasoning, and garnish with fresh coriander before serving.
These winter rice recipes provide warmth, comfort, and nourishment, making them perfect additions to your seasonal meals. Reconnect with rice this winter and explore the delightful flavors it can bring to your table.