Tehri Recipe: Flavorful One-Pot Vegetable Rice with Aromatic Spices

Tehri Recipe: Flavorful One-Pot Vegetable Rice with Aromatic Spices

Tehri (also known as Tahri) is a flavorful and aromatic rice dish commonly prepared in North India, especially in Uttar Pradesh and surrounding regions. It is often made with basmati rice, mixed vegetables, and a blend of spices, creating a savory and comforting one-pot meal. Traditionally, Tehri is a vegetarian dish, but it can be adapted by adding meat for extra flavor. The dish is known for its fragrant rice, which absorbs the spices and creates a vibrant, golden color. Tehri is usually served with raita (yogurt-based side dish), salad, or pickle and is a popular choice for special occasions, festive meals, or even a quick lunch.

Ingredients:

For the Rice and Vegetables:

• 1 1/2 cups basmati rice
• 2 tbsp ghee (clarified butter) or oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 potato, diced
• 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1/4 cup green beans, chopped
• 1/4 cup cauliflower florets (optional)
• 1-2 green chilies, slit (optional for heat)

Spices:

• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
• 1-2 bay leaves
• 1-2 cloves
• 2-3 cardamom pods
• 1 small cinnamon stick
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste

For Garnish (optional):

• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rice:

• Wash the basmati rice thoroughly in cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice for about 20-30 minutes, then drain and set it aside.

2. Cook the Vegetables:

• Heat ghee or oil in a large pot or pressure cooker over medium heat.
• Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then add bay leaves, cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon stick. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the spices release their aroma.
• Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. This step is crucial for the depth of flavor in the dish.
• Add the chopped tomato and cook until softened and the oil starts to separate from the mixture (about 5 minutes).
• Add the diced potatoes, carrots, peas, green beans, and cauliflower (if using). Stir well and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.

3. Add the Spices:

• Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
• Add the soaked and drained rice to the pot and stir gently to combine the rice with the vegetable mixture and spices. Be careful not to break the rice grains.

4. Cook the Tehri:

• If using a pressure cooker: Add 3 cups of water, stir, and close the lid. Cook on medium heat for 2-3 whistles (approximately 10-12 minutes) or until the rice is tender and cooked through.
• If using a regular pot: Add 3 cups of water, bring it to a boil, then cover with a tight-fitting lid. Lower the heat to simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the water is absorbed.

5. Garnish and Serve:

• Once the Tehri is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before opening the lid. This helps the flavors settle.
• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve with a side of yogurt (raita), pickle, or a simple salad.

Tips:

• Variation: You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or peas to suit your preference. You can also add paneer or tofu for a vegetarian protein option.
• Non-Vegetarian Tehri: If you’d like to make a non-vegetarian version, you can add chicken or mutton pieces. The meat should be cooked with the vegetables before adding the rice.
• Aromatic Rice: For extra fragrance, you can add a few saffron strands soaked in warm milk or a tablespoon of rose water to the rice.

Tehri is a simple yet delicious dish that combines the wholesomeness of vegetables with the richness of aromatic spices, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Enjoy this comforting, one-pot meal with family and friends!