Rice And Peas

This simple dish is rich in flavor and low on effort. Use your choice of vegetables. I often used mixed vegetables, raisins and nuts for variation.

Makes 4 servings

1 cup Basmati rice

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1/2 teaspoon whole cumin seeds

1 cup frozen peas, unthawed

Salt, to taste

2 cups water

Rinse the rice 3 to 4 times with water. Drain and set aside.

In a deep pan, heat the vegetable oil on medium heat.

Add the cumin seeds. When they begin to sizzle, add the peas.

Saute for 2 to 3 minutes.

Add the rice and salt. Mix well. Add the water and bring to a rolling boil.

Reduce heat to the lowest setting.

Cover rice with a lid and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until most of the water has evaporated. You will see small craters forming on top of the rice.

Remove from heat. Let sit for about 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving. Serve hot.

Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.