Jaggery rice, also known as "Gur wale Chawal" in Hindi, is a traditional Indian sweet rice dish made with jaggery (a type of unrefined sugar), rice, and aromatic spices. It is commonly prepared during festivals and special occasions. Here's a recipe for making jaggery rice:
Ingredients:
? 1 cup basmati rice
? 1 cup jaggery, grated or chopped into small pieces
? 4 cups water
? 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
? 4-5 green cardamom pods, crushed
? 1 cinnamon stick
? 1/4 cup chopped mixed nuts (cashews, almonds, raisins)
? Pinch of saffron strands (optional)
? 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
? A pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the soaked and drained rice to the boiling water and cook until the rice is 70-80% cooked (still slightly firm). Drain the rice and set aside.
3. In a separate pan, heat the ghee over medium heat.
4. Add the crushed cardamom pods and cinnamon stick to the pan. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
5. Add the chopped mixed nuts to the pan and fry until they turn golden brown.
6. Add the grated jaggery to the pan and stir continuously until it melts and forms a syrup-like consistency. Make sure the jaggery doesn't burn.
7. Reduce the heat to low and add the partially cooked rice to the pan. Mix gently to coat the rice evenly with the jaggery syrup.
8. Add saffron strands (if using), cardamom powder, and a pinch of salt to the pan. Mix well.
9. Cover the pan with a lid and let the rice cook on low heat for about 10-15 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and absorbs the flavours.
10. Once the rice is cooked, remove the pan from heat and let it rest, covered, for a few minutes.
11. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Serve warm.
Jaggery rice is a delightful sweet dish that can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of yoghourt or raita. It's a perfect way to add a touch of sweetness to your meal and celebrate the rich flavours of jaggery.