Methi Chawal: A recipe to emboss the Fragrance of Indian Cuisine

Methi Chawal is a popular Indian rice dish that combines the flavors of methi (fenugreek leaves) with rice, making it a delicious and aromatic one-pot meal. Methi is known for its medicinal properties and is widely used in Indian cuisine. This rice recipe is best paired with curd or raita on a Sunday afternoon, soaking the warm and cozy ambiance. 

To prepare Methi Chawal, here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 2 cups fresh fenugreek leaves (methi), chopped
• 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
• 2-3 tablespoons oil or ghee
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Wash the rice and soak it in water for 20-30 minutes.
2. In a large pan, heat oil or ghee and add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. 
3. Once they start to splutter, add chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
4. Add the chopped methi leaves and green chilies to the pan and cook until the methi leaves are wilted and cooked.
5. Add turmeric powder and red chili powder (if using) and stir well.
6. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pan. Mix well and cook for 1-2 minutes.
7. Add 2 cups of water and salt to taste. Mix well and bring it to a boil.
8. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid. 
9. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
10. Turn off the heat and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. 
11. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot with a raita or any side dish of your choice.
    

Methi Chawal is a healthy and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner. It can be made in different ways by adding spices and vegetables of your choice.