Authentic Adheeram Recipe: A Taste of Tradition

Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups of basmati rice
  • 3 cups of water
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
  • 2 teaspoons of garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon of turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon of cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon of chilli powder
  • 2 cups of mixed vegetables (like carrots, peas, and bell peppers)
  • 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly chopped coriander for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons of lemon juice

Steps and instructions

  1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Then, add the rice and water to a pot. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, until the rice is cooked and all the water is absorbed.
  2. While the rice is cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté until it becomes translucent.
  4. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan, and continue to sauté for another minute, until they become fragrant.
  5. Add the garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and chilli powder to the pan, and stir well to combine with the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook for another minute until the spices are well toasted.
  6. Add the mixed vegetables to the pan and stir well to combine with the spices. Continue to cook for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
  7. Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the pan, and stir well to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the chickpeas are heated through. Season with salt to taste.
  8. Once the rice is done cooking, add it to the pan with the vegetable and chickpea mixture. Stir well to combine and ensure all the ingredients are well mixed.
  9. Remove the pan from the heat, and stir in the lemon juice. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander before serving.

Tools for making

  • Pot - A pot with a lid to cook the basmati rice.
  • Pan or Wok - A large pan or wok to sauté the vegetables and spices.
  • Knife - A knife to finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  • Grater - A grater to grate the ginger.
  • Measuring Spoons - Measuring spoons to accurately measure the spices.
  • Stirring Spoon - A spoon for stirring and combining the ingredients.
  • Colander - A colander to drain and rinse the chickpeas.
  • Cutting Board - A cutting board to chop the vegetables and prepare the ingredients.
  • Lemon Squeezer - A lemon squeezer to extract the juice from the lemon.

Recipe variations

  • Replace basmati rice with quinoa or couscous for a different grain option.
  • Add diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a protein-packed variation.
  • Experiment with different vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or zucchini.
  • For a spicier version, increase the amount of chilli powder or add chopped green chillies.
  • Include a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
  • Add a tablespoon of tomato paste or a can of diced tomatoes for a richer tomato flavor.
  • Sprinkle some roasted cashews or almonds on top for added crunch.
  • Garnish with fresh mint leaves instead of coriander for a refreshing twist.
  • Replace lemon juice with lime juice for a tangier taste.
  • For a creamier texture, add a splash of coconut milk or yogurt to the dish.

Recipe overview

Indulge in the flavors of the Indian subcontinent with this delightful dish, Adheeram. This one-pot recipe brings together aromatic spices, tender mixed vegetables, hearty chickpeas, and fluffy basmati rice all in a single pan, making it not only delicious but also easy to prepare and clean up after. The combination of garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and chilli powder provides a burst of exotic flavors in each bite, while the addition of lemon juice and fresh coriander gives it a tangy freshness. Perfect as a main course or a side dish, Adheeram is sure to be a hit with everyone at your table. Whether you're new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned connoisseur, this dish is a great way to bring a bit of culinary adventure to your everyday meals.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of rice? Yes, you can use a different type of rice such as jasmine rice or long-grain rice, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary.
  2. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen vegetables if you don't have fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the pan.
  3. Can I substitute the chickpeas with another legume? Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute the chickpeas with any other legume of your choice, like kidney beans or black beans.
  4. Can I adjust the spice level? Of course! Feel free to adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preferences. You can increase or decrease the amount of chilli powder to make it spicier or milder.
  5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make the Adheeram ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
  6. Can I add meat to this recipe? Certainly! If you prefer a non-vegetarian version, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or any other meat of your choice to the Adheeram.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - for cooking the basmati rice
  • Pan or wok - for sautéing the onion, garlic, ginger, spices, and vegetables
  • Spatula - for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pan
  • Measuring cups - to accurately measure the basmati rice and water
  • Knife - for chopping the onion and mincing the garlic
  • Grater - for grating the ginger
  • Cutting board - for chopping the onion and other vegetables
  • Can opener - to open the can of chickpeas
  • Lemon squeezer - to extract the juice from the lemon
  • Garnishing spoon - for sprinkling freshly chopped coriander on top

Origin stories

Adheeram, in its essence, is a celebration of the colorful and vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine. Each household has its own special rendition of this dish, passed down through generations. Its origins can be traced back to the royal kitchens of the Mughal Empire, where it was served as a vegetarian alternative to the meat-heavy meals often favored by the nobility. Over time, it has evolved and adapted to the local tastes of different regions of the country, hence the variation in spices and vegetables used. This is the beauty of Adheeram - it is not just a dish, but a reflection of the diversity and richness of Indian culture. The blending of spices, the medley of vegetables, and the humble chickpea come together to create a dish that is not just hearty and satisfying, but also tells a story of a culinary tradition that has been shaped by history, geography, and the warm-hearted people of India.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.