Beetroot Pulao (Beetroot Rice)

Beetroot Pulao (Beetroot Rice) Ingredients

2 cups basmati or jasmine rice3 cups cooked beetroot (diced into 1 cm cubes)2 tbsp oil2 cups onion (finely diced)15 curry leaves (optional)7 cloves garlic (minced)1 inch ginger (grated)2 green chillies (finely sliced)1/2 tsp turmeric powder1/2 tsp red chili powder (or cayenne/paprika)1 tsp coriander powder1 tsp salt (to taste)3 cups water (or more)

Whole Spices

5 green cardamoms2 inch cinnamon5 cloves12 whole black peppercorns1 tsp mustard seeds1 tsp cumin seeds

Steps

Rinse rice till water is clear, soak for 20 mins, drain & set aside.Heat oil in a large pan or pot on medium high & add whole spices.When seeds start to pop, add onion & curry leaves.When onion turns translucent, add garlic, ginger & green chillies, cook for 2 mins.Add the spice powders, salt & beetroot, stir & cook for 2 mins.Add rice & water, stir for 10 secs & bring to a boil.Reduce heat to medium, cover & cook until water is fully absorbed by rice (abt 10 mins)Taste to adjust seasoning & add a little more water if rice is still not cooked to desired doneness.Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley & serve.