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Methi rice is the ultimate comfort food that's simple yet packed with so much flavour.
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Start by rinsing a cup of rice and soaking it for about 20 minutes. Alternatively, use 3 cups of leftover cooked rice.
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If using raw rice, bring 2 cups of water to a boil, add the soaked rice, and cook until done with separate grains. Let it cool completely.
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Prepare 1¼ cups of fresh methi leaves by plucking them off the stems and washing thoroughly.
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Heat 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee in a pan. Add 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds, a couple of green cardamoms, and 1-2 finely chopped garlic cloves. Saut until aromatic.
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Add 1-2 slit green chillies and cook for a minute. Stir in 1/2 cup of green peas and saut for another minute.
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Add the methi leaves and saut for 3-4 minutes until wilted. Sprinkle ¼-1/2 teaspoon garam masala and a pinch of turmeric. Mix well and turn off the heat.
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Add the cooled rice to the methi-pea mixture. Gently fold to combine without smashing the rice. Add ⅓ teaspoon salt, adjusting as needed.
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Drizzle 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice over the rice for a zesty finish. Taste and tweak the seasoning if required.
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Serve hot with raita or a simple salad for a light, wholesome meal.
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Instant Pot Method:
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Follow the same steps for soaking the rice and prepping the methi leaves.
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Set the Instant Pot to saut mode. Heat oil, then add cumin seeds, cardamoms, garlic, and green chillies. Saut until fragrant.
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Add peas and methi leaves, cooking until the leaves wilt. Stir in the spices and salt.
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Add the soaked rice and 1¼ cups of water. Cancel saut mode, scrape the bottom, and seal the lid.
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Pressure cook for 5 minutes (basmati) or 10 minutes (regular rice). Let it naturally release pressure for 5 minutes, then quick-release the rest.
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Fluff the rice, adjust salt and lemon juice, and serve hot. This recipe of Methi rice is perfect for any occasion.