Hot Mint Rice That Might Make You Forget Non-Veg; A Must-Try Monsoon Lunch Recipe

During the rainy season, eating heavy or spicy meals can often lead to bloating, indigestion, or an uneasy stomach. At such times, Mint Rice is a perfect choice because it is light, flavorful, and gentle on digestion. The refreshing aroma of fresh mint, the freshness of coriander, and the subtle blend of spices make this rice both delicious and soothing for your digestive system. Best of all, it can be prepared in just a few minutes using simple ingredients commonly available at home.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1 bunch fresh mint leaves
• ½ bunch fresh coriander leaves
• 1–2 green chilies
• 1-inch piece of ginger
• 4–5 garlic cloves
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 tomato, finely chopped
• ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 cloves
• 1 green cardamom
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• ½ teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 2 teaspoons ghee or cooking oil

Method

• Wash the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for 15–20 minutes.
• Blend the mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chilies, ginger, and garlic with a little water to make a smooth paste.
• Heat ghee or oil in a pressure cooker or a heavy-bottomed pan.
• Add the cumin seeds, bay leaf, cloves, and cardamom, and sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
• Add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns golden brown.
• Add the chopped tomato and cook until it becomes soft.
• Stir in the prepared mint paste and cook for 2–3 minutes.
• Add turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt, mixing everything well.
• Add the soaked rice and gently combine it with the masala.
• Pour in 1½ to 2 cups of water, depending on the rice, cover the pressure cooker, and cook until one whistle. If using a pan, cook until the rice is tender and all the water is absorbed.
• Once the pressure is released naturally, open the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork.

Serving Suggestion

Serve hot Mint Rice with plain yogurt, cucumber raita, crispy papad, or a simple fresh salad. Its light texture, refreshing aroma, and digestive benefits make it an ideal lunch for cool, rainy days.