Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice (or any long-grain rice)
• 2 medium capsicums (bell peppers), finely chopped (you can use a mix of green, red, or yellow)
• 1 onion, finely sliced
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1-2 green chilies, chopped (optional)
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• ½ tsp cumin seeds
• 1 bay leaf
• 2-3 cloves
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1-2 cardamom pods
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp red chili powder
• 1 tbsp fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tbsp oil (or ghee)
• Salt to taste
• 2 cups water (or vegetable broth for more flavor)

Preparation

Rinse the rice in water 2-3 times until the water runs clear.

Soak the rice in water for 15-20 minutes, then drain it.

Heat oil (or ghee) in a pressure cooker or a large pan over medium heat.

Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cloves, cinnamon stick, and cardamom pods. Let them splutter for 30 seconds.

Add the sliced onions and sauté until they become soft and golden brown.

Add the ginger-garlic paste and chopped green chilies. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.

Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and release their juices.

Add the chopped capsicum and cook for 3-4 minutes until they are slightly tender but still retain their crunch.

Now add turmeric powder, garam masala, and red chili powder. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices.

Add the soaked and drained rice to the pan. Stir gently to mix the rice with the vegetables and spices.

Add water (or vegetable broth) and salt to taste. Stir and bring it to a boil.

If using a pressure cooker, close the lid and cook for 1-2 whistles (about 10-12 minutes). If using a regular pan, cover and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and all the water is absorbed.

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Serve hot with raita, pickle, or any side dish of your choice.

Notes

1. You can add peas, carrots, or beans for more color and nutrition.
2. This recipe is naturally vegan, but you can use ghee for a richer flavor if you’re not strictly vegan.
3. Adjust the green chilies and red chili powder to make it spicier if preferred.