Basmati Rice With Peas
A fragrant and simple rice dish featuring basmati rice cooked with dried basil, then mixed with tender frozen peas for a fresh, flavorful side suitable for any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook basmati rice with dried basil in a rice cooker until done.
- While the rice is hot, add frozen peas, salt, and pepper.
- Stir very well until the frozen peas are warmed through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fragrant touch, try adding a pinch of cumin seeds or a bay leaf while cooking the rice. If you don’t have dried basil, fresh basil or even cilantro can be substituted for a different flavor profile. Experiment with adding other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
Serving Suggestions
This basmati rice with peas makes a delightful side dish for grilled meats or fish, enhancing any meal with its subtle flavors. It pairs beautifully with Thai Noodles With Spicy Peanut Sauce for a complete vegetarian option. For a touch of freshness, consider serving it alongside a simple salad dressed with French Dressing(Diabetic Recipe).
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover basmati rice with peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water and microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This helps prevent the rice from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basmati Rice With Peas contains roughly 25 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1747mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown basmati rice instead of white?
Yes, you can use brown basmati rice, but it requires a longer cooking time. Adjust the water to about 1.5 cups per cup of rice and cook until tender, which usually takes around 40-45 minutes.
What can I add to make this dish more flavorful?
To elevate the flavor, consider sautéing onions and garlic in a bit of olive oil before adding the rice and water. You can also include spices like turmeric or garam masala for a warm, aromatic twist.
How can I make this dish vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly! Just ensure that any additional ingredients or sides you serve alongside are also plant-based. You might pair it with other vegan recipes like a chickpea salad for a hearty meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).