simple basmati rice
How to cook simple, plain basmati rice or chawal. This recipe will give you light, dry and fluffy rice.
rice, pulao and biryani
Rice is an important part of Indian cuisine and there are many different ways to prepare these dishes. In this section, we have rice, pulao and biryani recipes.
In simple terms, rice is simply cooked in water. Pulao is more complex and is often a one-pot dish, with rice and usually vegetables cooked in stock. Biryani is more complex and is usually a layered dish with rice as a component.
The differences are more completely described in our article, what are rice, pulao and biryani?
Bengali fried rice
The traditional and delightful Bengali fried rice. Called ghee bhaat, it is sometimes referred to as Bengali vegetable pulao. It is a simple, wholesome rice and vegetable dish, suitable to accompany almost any lentil or vegetable dish in this book.
decorative basmati rice
Plain, simple basmati rice, chawal, with a touch of colour.
brown rice
Parsi brown rice is actually white rice with caramelised jaggery and onions. Lightly golden in colour, vagharela chawal is mildly sweet and fragrant from the whole spices.
vegetable pulao
Our family vegetable pulao recipe. Typical of the Hyderabadi cuisine, sabzi pulao is a one-pot rice dish deserving of centre stage at a family gathering.
green pea pulao
Simple and delicious pea pulao, or matar pulao. This is rice simmered in stock, with bursts of flavour from the fresh green peas.
mint and mushroom pulao
A delicate and mildly spiced mushroom pulao from Jodhpur. Kukurmutta pulao has mint and mushrooms highlighted by gentle spices. A very elegant dish.
Kashmiri pulao
Kashmiri pulao is a slightly sweet, saffron-infused rice dish, with great texture, aroma and appearance. An ideal accompaniment to delicate north Indian vegetarian dishes.
kedgeree
Kedgeree is another Raj specialty, appropriated and modified from traditional Indian fare. It is considered a breakfast dish. Buttery rice, with fish and eggs, and a hit of chilli. Great way to start the day.
idli
These savoury rice cakes, idli, are served at breakfast, as a snack, or in place of rice for a lighter meal.
lamb biryani
This lamb biryani is from the Awadhi cuisine of Lucknow. Lucknavi biryani has wonderfully complex flavours and is a work of art when presented well.
chicken biryani
This chicken biryani, or murgh biryani is delicately scented with rosewater and cardamom, with hot and spicy chicken pieces.