The Indian state of Gujarat is popular for its hardy people and food. Authentic Gujarati dishes are easy to make and serve and light on the digestive system. Hence, it is not unusual to see dishes like Lilva rice being served around the world. Lilva rice can be experimented with as far as flavors are concerned. All you have to do is work on what aroma or flavor appeals most to you and include the ingredient of your choice. The right balance of ingredients in Lilva rice makes the dish an all time favorite. The dish gives your kids and seniors at home a well balanced meal component rich in all the vital nutrients that the body requires on a daily basis.
Ingredients:
1 cup good quality Basmati rice
2 inch stick of cinnamon
2 cloves
2 cardamoms
1 cup of fresh double beans or papdi
Cooking medium (preferably ghee or clarified butter)
Salt to taste
Right measure of water
Blend together: 1 tblsp fresh coriander, juice of 1/2 lemon, 1/2 inch piece of ginger, 1/4 tsp garlic paste
Popular Accompaniments:
You can really get innovative with Lilva rice. It is best served hot at noon time. The accompaniments that you can try out include pickles, papads and raitas. You could also serve Lilva rice with dal. The kids just love the taste and freak on Lilva rice when indulging in their favorite leisure activity. There are a number of ways in which you could spice up the dish even further. Try garnishes like mint, spring onion or deep fried crispy spinach! You can add to or replace the tangy flavor that the rice takes on. You could also make the meal comprising only of Lilva rice as the main dish more scrumptious and wholesome for the whole family by throwing in some stir fried assorted vegetables like peas, potatoes and even cottage cheese or shallow fried paneer. The simple recipe calls for a lot of modification to suit specific taste.
Main Cooking:
In a heavy bottom vessel, heat the ghee.
Throw in the cardamom, cinnamon and cloves.
Allow the spices to lend their aromas and flavors to the oil or ghee.
Add the rice and stir fry for around 5 minutes.
Add the blended ingredients and stir fry for another 5 minutes.
Add the beans, water, salt and 2 cups of warm water.
Presentation:
Cook the rice till done and serve hot garnished with some more coriander leaves.
