Beetroot and Curry Leaf Rice

This Beetroot and Curry Leaf Rice is a perfect ‘almost’ one pot preparation that’s simple to make, healthy and nutritious for the whole family. Flavoursome and with the goodness of beets and curry leaf, this also makes an excellent lunch box dish.

This has been the decade of reality culinary shows and being the fanatic foodie that I am, spent countless hours watching many of these. But the only show that impressed and inspired me was Masterchef Australia – simply because the show helped me understand and learn several new cooking techniques, ingredients and also a completely new outlook to food.

Just like many other countries, India too joined the bandwagon and started Masterchef India 3 years ago. To say that I thoroughly disliked the show would be an understatement – it started off as a Bollywood movie with drama, twists, turns etc. (the show has redeemed its reputation largely this season)

But there were some recipes that did capture my attention especially the beetroot and curry leaf rice, which is super simple to make and a great twist to regular rice preparations. The beautifully rich red colour of the beetroot gives the whole dish a wow appearance!

This Beetroot and Curry Leaf Rice is a perfect and wholesome lunchbox dish. Healthy, nutritious and that beautiful red colour really interests everyone. Pair with a refreshing cucumber raita and lunch is sorted.

Basmati or long grain rice is best suited for this dish. The rice is cooked first, drained and kept aside to cool before starting on the beets, aromatics and herbs. Make sure the rice is cooked perfect and not mushy which will take away from the overall flavour.

The addition of curry leaves really elevates the flavour profile so make sure you don’t skip this ingredient. Because of the combination, this beetroot and curry leaf rice dish will remind you of beetroot thoran though there’s no coconut in this dish.

Simple and healthy, so do try out this dish that is definitely going to be a family favourite.

If you are a fan of quick rice dishes, here are my top suggestions;

1. One pot Spanish Rice with Chorizo
2. Thai style Duck Fried Rice
3. Asian style Chicken Fried Rice
4. Egg Broccolini Rice
5. Greek style Prawn Pilaf

Print Recipe

5 from 1 vote

Beetroot and Curry Leaf Rice

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Indian

Ingredients

• basmati rice – 2 cups
• vegetable oil – 2-3 tbsp
• Butter – 1 tsp
• mustard seeds – ¼ tsp
• urad dal – ½ tsp
• ginger – 1 tsp chopped
• green chillies – ½ tsp chopped
• curry leaves – 3 sprigs
• shallots – 3-4 sliced
• beetroot – 1 finely grated
• lemon juice – ½ tsp
• salt – to taste

Instructions

• Boil the basmati rice, drain and keep aside.
• Heat oil in a pan, add a little butter and crackle the mustard seeds.
• Add the urad dal, ginger, green chillies, curry leaf and sauté for a few seconds.
• Next, add the sliced shallots and cook till soft.
• Add the cooked rice and mix well.
• Add the grated beetroot, lemon juice and salt and mix well.
• Saute till all the ingredients are mixed well.