Cumin rice,Zeera rice (or jeera rice) is one of my favorite quick and easy side dishes. It’s fragrant, flavorful, and pairs well with a variety of curries and main dishes.
When I need something simple but satisfying, cumin rice is my go-to. The nutty flavor of cumin seeds brings the rice to life, adding a layer of aroma and taste that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and can be made with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
I hope this cumin rice recipe becomes a favorite in your kitchen as well! Let me know if you try it or add your own twist to it—I’d love to hear how it turns out.
About the Recipe
Cumin rice is a classic dish in Indian cuisine, known for its simplicity and delicious flavor. It’s basically rice flavored with cumin seeds and a few other aromatics like bay leaves or cloves if you want to add extra depth.
It’s commonly served with dals, curries, or grilled meats, but honestly, you can eat it on its own with a little ghee (clarified butter) on top and still feel satisfied. The best part? It’s a beginner-friendly recipe that anyone can make.
I’ve been making cumin rice since I first learned to cook, and it’s still a staple in my kitchen. Over the years, I’ve learned that frying the cumin seeds just right is the key to unlocking the best flavor.
And trust me, the aroma of toasted cumin is enough to make your mouth water!
Cumin Rice Ingredients
Rice -I prefer using basmati rice for its long grains and fragrant aroma. Basmati rice is traditionally used for this dish, but you can also use jasmine rice or regular white rice if that’s what you have at home.
Onions-Onions add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to cumin rice. When lightly sautéed with cumin seeds, they release their natural sugars, enhancing the overall aroma and richness of the dish.
I like to finely chop the onions so they blend seamlessly with the rice, adding just the right amount of texture without overpowering the delicate cumin flavor.
Cumin Seeds -This is the star of the show. Whole cumin seeds are what give this rice its unique, earthy flavor. You’ll fry them in oil or ghee at the start to release their fragrance.
Oil or Ghee -I usually use ghee or butter because it adds a rich flavor to the rice. However, if you want a lighter option or prefer a vegan dish, you can easily substitute oil.
Water -Always use double the amount of water as rice. So, for 1 cup of rice, use 2 cups of water. You can also use broth to enhance the flavor.
Salt– A little salt is essential to bring out the flavors. I add it when the water is boiling to ensure even seasoning throughout the dish.
Optional ingredients for extra flavor:
- Bay Leaf:
- Cardamom
- Cloves:
- Cinnamon stick
How to Make Cumin Rice
- Rinse the Rice: Start by rinsing the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes the excess starch, making your rice fluffy and less sticky.
2. Soak the basmati rice: in normal water for about 15-20 minutes.
3 .Toast the Cumin: Heat 2-3 tablespoons of ghee/ butter or oil in a pan. Once hot, add onion and saute it for a minute or two ,then add 2 teaspoon of cumin seeds along with other whole spices. Let them crackle and release their aroma. This only takes a few seconds, so keep an eye on them—they can burn quickly!
4. Add Water and Salt: Pour in 2 cups of water for every cup of rice. Add salt to taste (I use about 1/2 teaspoon per cup of rice) and bring the water to a boil.
5. Cook the Rice: Once the water starts boiling, add the rinsed rice. Lower the heat, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer on low heat for about 15-18 minutes until the water is fully absorbed.
6. Fluff the Rice: Once done, turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff it gently with a fork.
Expert Tips
- Don’t skip rinsing the rice. This is crucial for fluffy, non-sticky rice.
- You want them to release their aroma but not burn. A few seconds is all it takes, so have your rice and water ready.
- Once you cover the pot, don’t open it until the rice is fully cooked. The steam trapped inside is what finishes cooking the rice.
Storing and Reheating Instructions
Storing: Cumin rice stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. I usually keep it in an airtight container to retain its moisture and flavor.
Reheating: You can reheat cumin rice in the microwave or on the stovetop. If using the microwave, sprinkle a little water over the rice before heating to prevent it from drying out. On the stovetop, just add a splash of water or broth and warm it on low heat, stirring occasionally.
Best Pairing
Cumin rice is incredibly versatile. I love serving it with lentil-based dishes like dal or hearty curries like chicken curry or butter chicken . It also pairs wonderfully with grilled veggies, Chapli kababs and Chicken Tikka. And if you want to keep it simple, just top it with a dollop of yogurt and a drizzle of ghee—it’s comfort food at its best.
Where to Buy Cumin
Cumin seeds are widely available in most grocery stores in the spice section. If you’re looking for a more aromatic variety, you can find them at Indian grocery stores or order online.
I’ve noticed that cumin seeds from Indian markets tend to have a stronger, more robust flavor.
Here are more easy and mouth watering South Asian recipes to try:
Aloo Bhujia (Spicy Potato Curry)
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and water ratio since brown rice takes longer to cook. Use about 2 ½ cups of water for 1 cup of brown rice and cook it for 35-40 minutes.
2. What can I add to make cumin rice more flavorful?
Feel free to add spices like cloves, bay leaves, or cinnamon while cooking for extra warmth and depth of flavor. You can also garnish with fresh coriander for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Can I make cumin rice in advance?
Absolutely! Cumin rice reheats beautifully, so it’s great for meal prep. Store it in the fridge, and you’ll have an easy side dish ready to go.
4. Is cumin rice spicy?
Not at all. Cumin rice is mild and aromatic, with earthy flavors from the cumin seeds. If you want a bit of heat, you can add a chopped green chili while frying the cumin seeds.
5. How do I make sure the rice doesn’t stick?
Rinsing the rice thoroughly before cooking is key to preventing it from becoming sticky. Also, avoid stirring the rice too much while it’s cooking.
I hope this cumin rice recipe becomes a favorite in your kitchen as well! Let me know if you try it or add your own twist to it—I’d love to hear how it turns out.
Is cumin rice good for you?
Cumin rice can be good for you, especially when made with whole grains like brown basmati rice. Cumin itself is healthy and has several benefits.
What Do Chinese People Do with Cumin?
In Chinese cuisine, cumin is commonly used in Xinjiang or Uyghur food. It’s particularly popular for seasoning meats, especially lamb and beef, in dishes like cumin lamb. Cumin is often combined with chili and garlic for a bold, spicy flavor, used in stir-fries, skewers, and grilled meats. It’s a key spice in the popular street food chuan (grilled meat skewers).
Is Cumin Healthy or Not?
Yes, cumin is considered healthy when consumed in moderation. It can help with digestion, regulate blood sugar, and even boost metabolism. It’s a common spice in many traditional medicinal practices like Ayurveda.
Quick & Flavorful Cumin Rice Recipe (Jeera Rice)
Description
Cumin rice, also known as jeera rice, is a quick and easy dish made with fragrant basmati rice and toasted cumin seeds. This simple yet flavorful side dish pairs perfectly with curries, dals, or grilled meats. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s a go-to recipe for busy days when you want something delicious and satisfying. In this recipe, I’ll walk you through the steps, along with my personal tips and tricks for making the perfect cumin rice every time.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Rinse the Rice:
 Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for about 15-20 minutes, then drain.
-
Sauté onion and Spices:
Heat 2-3 tablespoons of ghee/ butter or oil in a pan. Once hot, add onion and saute it for a minute or two ,then add 2 teaspoon of cumin seeds along with other whole spices. Let them crackle and release their aroma.
-
Add Rice:
 Add the drained rice to the pan and gently stir to coat the rice with the cumin and oil.
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Add Water & Salt:
Pour in 3 cups of water and add salt to taste. Stir well.
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Cook the Rice:
 Bring the water to a boil, then lower the heat, cover the pan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the water has evaporated.
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Fluff & Garnish:
 Remove the pan from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
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Serve:
Enjoy cumin rice with your favorite curry or as a side dish!
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 450kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 11g17%
- Saturated Fat 6g30%
- Cholesterol 25mg9%
- Sodium 458mg20%
- Potassium 160mg5%
- Total Carbohydrate 78g26%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 1g
- Protein 7g15%
- Vitamin A 151 IU
- Vitamin C 2.4 mg
- Calcium 49 mg
- Iron 2 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
