Cooking tasty food doesn’t need complicated ingredients or restaurant-level skills. This Simple Veg Masala Rice Recipe is perfect for beginners and busy people who want a quick, flavourful homemade meal with clear measurements and easy steps.
⏱️ Preparation Time & Servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 2 people
🧾 Ingredients (Exact Measurements)
Main Ingredients:
- Basmati Rice – 1 cup
- Water – 2 cups
- Oil – 2 tablespoons
- Onion (finely chopped) – 1 medium
- Tomato (finely chopped) – 1 medium
- Mixed Vegetables (carrot, peas, beans) – ½ cup
Spices:
- Cumin Seeds – ½ teaspoon
- Ginger-Garlic Paste – 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric Powder – ¼ teaspoon
- Red Chilli Powder – ½ teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Garam Masala – ½ teaspoon
- Salt – ¾ teaspoon (or as per taste)
Optional:
- Fresh Coriander Leaves – 2 tablespoons (chopped)
- Lemon Juice – 1 teaspoon
🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Wash and Soak Rice
Wash 1 cup basmati rice under running water until the water runs clear.
Soak it in water for 15 minutes, then drain.
Step 2: Heat Oil
Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a pan or pressure cooker on medium flame.
Add ½ teaspoon cumin seeds and let them crackle.
Step 3: Prepare the Base
Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until light golden.
Now add 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste and cook for 30 seconds.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes & Spices
Add chopped tomato, turmeric, red chilli powder, garam masala, and salt.
Cook until oil starts separating (about 3–5 minutes).
Step 5: Add Vegetables
Add ½ cup mixed vegetables and cook for 2 minutes, stirring gently.
Step 6: Cook the Rice
Add soaked rice and 2 cups water.
Mix gently and bring to a boil.
- Pressure Cooker: 1 whistle on medium flame
- Pan Method: Cover and cook on low flame for 12–15 minutes
Step 7: Final Touch
Turn off the flame. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
Garnish with fresh coriander and add lemon juice if desired.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with:
- Plain curd or raita
- Papad
- Pickle or salad
💡 Cooking Tips
- Always use measuring cups for consistent taste
- Adjust spice level according to preference
- Do not over-stir rice to avoid breaking grains
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I use normal rice instead of basmati?
Yes, but reduce water to 1¾ cups for regular rice.
Q2. Is this recipe good for beginners?
Absolutely. This recipe is beginner-friendly with simple steps and exact quantities.
Q3. Can I make it without vegetables?
Yes, just skip vegetables and follow the same process.
Q4. Can I cook this without a pressure cooker?
Yes, use a heavy-bottom pan and cook covered on low flame.
