Curried Rice

Vegetarian Curried Rice Recipe from Belize

Region / culture: Belize | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Curried rice is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the bold flavors of curry powder with tender rice. This dish is a popular choice for those looking to add a bit of spice to their meal.

History

Curried rice has its origins in Indian cuisine, where curry powder is a staple spice blend used in many dishes. The combination of curry powder with rice was likely created as a way to add flavor and depth to a simple and versatile ingredient.

Ingredients

1 tbsp fat (15 ml)
1 small onion, chopped
6 tsp (2 tbsp) curry powder (30 ml)
3 cups rice (750 g)
5 cups water (1 liter)
1 tsp salt (5 ml)
0.5 tsp black pepper (2 ml)

How to prepare

Heat the fat in a large saucepan.
Add the onion and curry powder.
Cook until the onion is tender, stirring often.
Add the clean rice to the onion mixture.
Stir everything together.
Add water and all other seasonings.
Cover the pot.
Boil rapidly for 5 minutes, then reduce the heat to low and cook until the water is absorbed.
Place a simmer ring under the rice to prevent burning.
Add water as needed to make the grains tender.
Serve with any meat dish.

Variations

Add diced vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or carrots for added texture and flavor.
Use coconut milk instead of water for a creamier and richer dish.
Add cooked shrimp or tofu for a protein boost.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use a good quality curry powder for the best flavor.

- Toasting the curry powder with the onions helps to enhance the flavor of the spices.

- Be sure to stir the rice often to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.

- Adjust the amount of curry powder to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Curried rice pairs well with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the rice rapidly for 5 minutes before reducing the heat to low to ensure the rice cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the curry powder.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier alternative.

- Substitute ghee or coconut oil for the fat for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Curried rice can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped nuts for a pop of color and texture.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve curried rice with a side of naan bread or raita for a complete Indian-inspired meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover curried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

210

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 45g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 1g

Fats

- Total Fat: 1g

- Saturated Fat: 0g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 4g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 0%

- Vitamin C: 2%

- Calcium: 2%

- Iron: 4%

Alergens

This recipe may contain allergens such as gluten from the rice.

Summary

This dish is a good source of carbohydrates and provides a moderate amount of protein. It is low in fat and calories, making it a healthy option for a side dish.

Summary

Curried rice is a delicious and aromatic dish that is easy to make and pairs well with a variety of main dishes. With a blend of curry powder, onions, and tender rice, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Curried Rice. It was years ago when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my own grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen, able to whip up the most delicious dishes with just a few simple ingredients.

One day, as I watched her prepare a meal for our family, I noticed her adding a unique blend of spices to a pot of rice. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't resist asking her what she was making. With a twinkle in her eye, she told me about her secret recipe for Curried Rice.

She explained that she had learned the recipe many years ago from a dear friend who had traveled to India. This friend had brought back with her the most amazing spices and flavors, and my grandmother had been inspired to recreate them in her own kitchen. Over time, she had perfected the recipe, making it a family favorite that we all looked forward to.

I begged her to teach me how to make the Curried Rice, and she agreed with a smile. As she guided me through the steps, I watched in awe as she combined the spices with the rice, creating a dish that was both fragrant and flavorful. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen, a reminder of the bond between generations and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.

As the years passed, I continued to make the Curried Rice for my own family, adding my own twist to the recipe with each passing generation. I experimented with different spices and ingredients, making the dish my own while still honoring the tradition that had been passed down to me.

One day, my own granddaughter walked into the kitchen as I was preparing the Curried Rice. She was curious about the dish and asked me where I had learned to make it. With a smile, I told her about my own grandmother and how she had shared this recipe with me so many years ago.

I could see the same sense of anticipation in her eyes that I had felt all those years ago, and I knew that the tradition would continue on for generations to come. As we sat down to enjoy the meal together, I felt a sense of gratitude for the bond that had been created through a simple recipe for Curried Rice.

And as I watched my granddaughter take her first bite, I knew that the legacy of this dish would live on, bringing joy and connection to our family for years to come. For in the kitchen, we are not just cooking a meal - we are creating memories that will last a lifetime.