CURRIED CARROT AND ROUND GRAIN RICE – SIMPLE, AROMATIC SIDE DISH
A colorful and flavorful rice dish featuring tender carrots sautéed with ginger and curry powder, combined with perfectly cooked round grain rice. Light, aromatic, and ideal as a side or light main for 3-4 servings.
🕒 Prep & Cook Time: 40 min
🍽️ Servings: 3-4
🥄 Ingredients
- 250 g round grain rice
- 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into julienne strips
- 1 tsp curry powder (e.g., Madras)
- 1 tsp finely grated fresh ginger
- 4 tbsp oil
- 4 sprigs fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
- Rinse rice thoroughly in several changes of water but do not drain the last rinse; let rice soak until use.
- Peel carrots and cut into julienne strips, not too thin.
- Boil carrots in plenty of salted water (enough to also cook the rice later). Cook until fully tender.
- Remove carrots with a slotted spoon and place in a bowl to drain and cool, allowing excess water to evaporate.
- Add rice to the boiling carrot water. Cook rice following package instructions: start on high heat for ~2 minutes until bubbling, then reduce to low heat to simmer gently. Near the end, test rice for doneness and remove from heat when just tender, letting it finish steaming covered off heat.
- In a wide skillet (~25 cm), heat 2 tbsp oil. Add grated ginger and sauté briefly until fragrant.
- Add cooked carrots, sauté gently for 2 minutes to warm and coat with ginger oil; do not brown. Sprinkle lightly with salt.
- Remove carrots and sprinkle with some chopped parsley.
- Add remaining 2 tbsp oil to skillet. Stir in curry powder and cook briefly until dissolved in oil.
- Add well-drained rice to skillet, season with salt and remaining parsley. Gently toss or fold with a wide wooden spoon to coat rice evenly with spiced oil. Cook 1 more minute on heat.
- Transfer rice to a serving platter and top with sautéed carrots.
- Serve immediately or at room temperature; great for packed lunches.
💡 Tips
- Use round grain rice for creamy texture without becoming mushy.
- Soaking rice helps achieve better cooking results.
- Avoid overcooking carrots to keep texture intact.
- Gentle tossing preserves rice grains while distributing flavors evenly.
🎉 Perfect For
- Flavorful vegetarian side dishes
- Light, healthy meals
- Lunch boxes and picnics
📝 Final Thoughts
This curried carrot rice is a simple yet delicious dish bursting with subtle spice and fresh herbs. Its vibrant colors and aromas make it a delightful addition to any meal.