How to Make Jeera Rice (Cumin Rice): A Fragrant Indian Delight 🌿🍚

9jakitchenblog
September 29, 2025

Learn how to make Jeera Rice (Cumin Rice) step by step! A fragrant Indian delight, Jeera Rice pairs perfectly with curries. Easy recipe, tips, FAQs & nutrition included.

Introduction🌸

If you’ve ever wondered how to make Jeera Rice (Cumin Rice) at home, you’re in for a treat! Jeera Rice, also called Cumin Rice, is one of the simplest yet most fragrant Indian rice dishes. Infused with earthy cumin seeds and aromatic basmati rice, this side dish perfectly complements Indian curries, dals, and gravies. The beauty of Jeera Rice lies in its flavour, aroma, and ease of preparation, making it a must-have recipe in every kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Jeera Rice 💖

✨ Light, fluffy, and aromatic
✨ Complements almost any curry or dal
✨ Quick to make – perfect for busy days
✨ Nutritious and healthy
✨ Loved by kids and adults alike

Ingredients You’ll Need 🥘

1 cup basmati rice (long grain, aged preferred)
2 cups water
1 tbsp ghee or oil
1.5 tsp cumin seeds (jeera)
1 bay leaf (optional)
2–3 cloves (optional)
1 small cinnamon stick (optional)
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Equipment Needed 🍴

Heavy-bottomed pan or pot with a lid
Rice strainer
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Serving bowl

Step-by-Step: How to Make Jeera Rice 🌾

Step 1: Wash and Soak the Rice

Rinse basmati rice 2–3 times under running water until the water runs clear.
This helps remove extra starch and ensures fluffy basmati rice.
Soak it for 20 minutes, then drain.

Step 2: Temper the Cumin

Heat ghee or oil in a pan.
Add cumin seeds (jeera) and let them crackle. This is the magic step that gives Jeera Rice (Cumin Rice) its iconic aroma.
Add optional whole spices, such as bay leaf, cloves, or cinnamon, for an extra layer of flavour.

Step 3: Add Rice and Water

Add the soaked rice, stir gently for 1–2 minutes, then pour in 2 cups of water.
Add salt to taste.

Step 4: Cook Perfectly

Cover with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 12–15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
Do not stir too much – this helps you achieve fluffy basmati rice.

Step 5: Fluff and Garnish

Turn off the heat, let it rest for 5 minutes, and gently fluff with a fork.
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.

Your Jeera Rice (Cumin Rice) is ready to enjoy!

Jera Rice (Cumin Rice)

Serving Suggestions 🍛

With dal tadka or dal makhani
Alongside butter chicken or paneer butter masala
As a base for chole (chickpea curry)
With simple raita and papad for a light meal

Tips for the Best Jeera Rice ✨

✅ Always soak the rice before cooking for fluffier grains.
✅ Use ghee for a rich, authentic taste.
✅ Don’t over-stir while cooking, it breaks the grains.
✅ For extra flavour, add a dash of garam masala.
✅ Pair with dal tadka, butter chicken, or paneer curry for a complete meal.

Variations of Jeera Rice 🍲

Peas Jeera Rice: Add green peas for extra flavour and nutrition.
Brown Rice Jeera Rice: Swap basmati with brown rice for a healthier twist.
Garlic Jeera Rice: Add minced garlic to the tempering for a robust taste.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving) 🥗

Nutrient	Approx. Amount
Calories	190 kcal
Carbohydrates	38 g
Protein	4 g
Fat	3 g
Fiber	1 g
Sodium	150 mg

Source: FatSecret – Jeera Rice Nutrition↗

Frequently Asked Questions🙋🏽‍♀️

1. Can I use regular rice instead of basmati?
👉Yes, but basmati rice gives the best texture and fragrance.

2. How do I prevent Jeera Rice from becoming sticky?
👉Rinse rice thoroughly and don’t stir too much while cooking.

3. Can Jeera Rice be made in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot?
👉Absolutely! Just reduce the water slightly and cook for 1–2 whistles (pressure cooker) or 6 minutes on high pressure (Instant Pot).

4. Is Jeera Rice healthy?
👉Yes! It’s low in fat, gluten-free, and easy to digest. Using ghee in moderation adds healthy fats.

Final Thoughts 🌟

Learning how to make Jeera Rice is like unlocking the key to a versatile, delicious, and wholesome side dish. This Jeera Rice recipe is quick, flavorful, and pairs beautifully with a wide range of Indian dishes. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a festive feast, Cumin Rice will never disappoint.

So next time you’re craving something fragrant and comforting, just remember how easy it is to prepare Jeera Rice (Cumin Rice) at home. 💛