If you’re craving a vibrant, flavorful rice dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve just found it—my Curried Basmati Rice with Cashews and Cilantro Recipe is an absolute winner. This dish bursts with fragrant spices, tender basmati rice, crunchy roasted cashews, and fresh cilantro, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes that will brighten any meal. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough to impress guests, making it one of those go-to favorites you’ll want to cook again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples, but each one plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture in this dish. From aromatic spices to fresh herbs and crunchy nuts, every item adds something unforgettable to your Curried Basmati Rice with Cashews and Cilantro Recipe.
- Yellow curry powder (3 tsp): Provides the warm, earthy foundation that defines the curry flavor.
- Cumin (1 tsp): Adds a deep, nutty aroma that complements the curry perfectly.
- Coriander (1 tsp): Brings a citrusy brightness that keeps the dish lively.
- Paprika (1/2 tsp): Offers a subtle smokiness and rich color.
- Chilli powder (1/2 tsp): Adjust this to your taste for a hint of gentle heat.
- Butter (40g / 3 tbsp): Or ghee/oil, for a luscious base to sauté ingredients.
- Onion (1, finely chopped): Builds sweetness and depth when softened.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): Adds sharp, fragrant flavor.
- Ginger (2 tsp, finely chopped or grated): Gives a fresh, zingy note that brightens the curry.
- Basmati rice (1 1/2 cups / 275g, uncooked): The star grain, known for its fluffy, fragrant qualities.
- Carrot (2 small, peeled and grated): Adds a subtle sweetness and lovely color.
- Chicken or vegetable broth (2 1/4 cups / 560 ml, low sodium): The liquid that cooks the rice, infusing every grain with flavor.
- Frozen peas (2 cups / 300g): For that pop of color and tender texture.
- Salt (1 1/4 tsp): Essential to balance and enhance all flavors.
- Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds gentle warmth and depth.
- Cashews (1 cup / 150g, roasted, unsalted): Provide delightful crunch and a buttery finish.
- Coriander/cilantro leaves (1/2 cup, finely chopped): Freshens up the whole dish with vibrant herbal notes.
- Yogurt (optional, for serving): A creamy cooling option to complement the spices.
How to Make Curried Basmati Rice with Cashews and Cilantro Recipe
Step 1: Rinse the rice
Start by rinsing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs pretty clear. This simple step removes excess starch and helps your rice come out fluffy and separated rather than sticky—an essential part of this Curried Basmati Rice with Cashews and Cilantro Recipe.
Step 2: Melt the butter
In a small to medium pot or large saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. You can swap in ghee or your favorite oil if you prefer. This luscious fat will carry the flavors of the spices and aromatics beautifully.
Step 3: Sauté garlic and ginger
Add the minced garlic and finely chopped or grated ginger to the melted butter, cooking for about 30 seconds. Their fragrant aromas awaken the palate and create the perfect base for this rice recipe.
Step 4: Cook the onion
Now add the finely chopped onion. Cook it for about 2 minutes until it becomes partially translucent and begins to soften, releasing its natural sweetness to enhance the dish.
Step 5: Add the grated carrots
Stir in the grated carrots and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. This sweet veggie not only contributes to the flavor but also brightens the dish with a lovely orange hue.
Step 6: Coat the rice
Next, add the rinsed and drained basmati rice to the pot. Stir well so every grain is coated in the buttery, spiced mixture—this is where the flavor truly begins to infuse the rice.
Step 7: Add spices
Sprinkle in the yellow curry powder, cumin, coriander, paprika, and chili powder. Toss everything to ensure the rice is evenly coated with these vibrant, aromatic spices that define this Curried Basmati Rice with Cashews and Cilantro Recipe.
Step 8: Pour in broth and add vegetables
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the frozen peas, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine. If you notice some rice grains peeking above the liquid, gently push them down to ensure even cooking.
Step 9: Simmer and cook
Once the broth begins to simmer all over the surface, give it one gentle stir, cover the pot with a lid, and immediately reduce the heat to LOW. Resist the urge to peek and cook it for 14 minutes to let the rice perfectly absorb all those rich flavors.
Step 10: Check the rice
Carefully lift the lid slightly and tilt the pot to check if the liquid has been fully absorbed. If it has, clamp the lid back on and remove the pot from the heat to rest.
Step 11: Let it stand
Allow the rice to stand undisturbed for 10 minutes. This resting period lets the steam continue to gently finish cooking the grains, ensuring perfect fluffiness.
Step 12: Fluff the rice
Using a rubber spatula, gently fluff the rice to separate the grains without crushing them. This helps achieve that light, airy texture that makes this dish so irresistible.
Step 13: Stir in cashews and cilantro
Mix in most of the roasted cashews and finely chopped cilantro, giving the dish bursts of crunch and fresh herbal brightness that truly elevate the flavors.
Step 14: Serve with extra toppings
Transfer the rice to a serving bowl, then sprinkle the remaining cashews and cilantro on top for a beautiful, inviting touch that’s perfect for your Curried Basmati Rice with Cashews and Cilantro Recipe.
How to Serve Curried Basmati Rice with Cashews and Cilantro Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a dollop of creamy yogurt on the side is a wonderful way to mellow the spices and add richness. Fresh lime wedges also brighten the dish and enhance the vibrant flavors. Don’t forget a few extra toasted cashews sprinkled on top for a delightful crunch every bite.
Side Dishes
This rice is a fantastically versatile accompaniment. Pair it with grilled chicken or spiced lamb for a satisfying main course, or serve alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp salad to keep the meal light and fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Curried Basmati Rice with Cashews and Cilantro Recipe stuffed into roasted bell peppers or as a colorful side in a warm pita wrap with some grilled halloumi and cucumber raita. It’s the kind of dish that shines whether plated elegantly or scooped for a cozy family-style meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a tasty quick meal later on.
Freezing
This rice freezes very well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a covered pan with a splash of water or broth to refresh the moisture, or microwave it covered in short bursts stirring in between. Then sprinkle with fresh cilantro and cashews again for an almost freshly made experience.
FAQs
Can I use brown basmati rice instead of white?
Absolutely! Brown basmati rice will add nuttier flavor and more chew, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust broth and cooking time accordingly to keep your rice perfectly fluffy.
Is this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
You can easily make this recipe vegetarian or vegan by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and swapping butter for oil or vegan margarine. It’s equally delicious with those simple changes.
How spicy is the curry powder used in this recipe?
The yellow curry powder provides warm, mild spice rather than intense heat. If you want it spicier, feel free to increase the chili powder gradually or add a fresh chili while cooking.
Can I omit the cashews if I have a nut allergy?
Yes, you can skip the cashews or substitute them with toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds to maintain a nice crunch without the risk of nuts.
What’s the best way to make the rice fluffy and not sticky?
Rinsing the rice thoroughly before cooking is key, as it removes surface starch that can make it sticky. Also, avoid stirring while it’s cooking and resist lifting the lid too often to maintain steam and texture.
Final Thoughts
I’m so excited for you to try this Curried Basmati Rice with Cashews and Cilantro Recipe because it effortlessly brings together comforting flavors and delightful textures in a way that’s both approachable and impressive. Whether you’re feeding family or guests, this dish will become a shining star in your meal rotation. Trust me, once you savor that warm, spiced rice dotted with crunchy cashews and fresh cilantro, you’ll keep coming back for more.
