Vegetable Rice

Ingredients:

• 1 cup basmati rice

• 1 tablespoon oil or ghee

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 carrot, diced

• 1 bell pepper, diced

• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, corn, carrots, green beans)

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

• Salt to taste

• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

• Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.

• Heat oil or ghee in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter.

• Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.

• Add the diced carrot, bell pepper, and frozen mixed vegetables to the pan. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

• Add the soaked and drained basmati rice to the pan. Mix well with the vegetables.

• Pour 1.5 cups of water into the pan. Add salt to taste.

• Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and all the water is absorbed.

• Once the rice is cooked, remove the pan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes to steam.

• Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.

• Serve hot as a flavorful side dish or as a main course. Enjoy your simplified Vegetable Rice!