Authentic Nepalese Chiura: A Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Chiura (Beaten rice)
  • 1 cup Water (to soak the chiura)
  • 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil
  • 1 Onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 Green chillies (finely chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Handful of Fresh coriander leaves (finely chopped)

Steps and instructions

  1. Take the chiura in a bowl and clean it thoroughly with dry hands to remove any dirt or impurities.
  2. Once cleaned, add water to the bowl just enough to soak the chiura. Let it rest for about 15-20 minutes until it softens.
  3. While the chiura is soaking, heat a pan and add vegetable oil to it.
  4. Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown.
  5. Next, add the chopped green chillies to the pan and stir well.
  6. Add the turmeric powder, cumin powder, and salt to the pan and mix well with the rest of the ingredients.
  7. Now, drain the water from the soaked chiura and add it to the pan. Stir gently until it mixes well with the spices.
  8. Cook for a few minutes until everything is well combined and the chiura is fully cooked.
  9. Turn off the heat and transfer the cooked chiura to a serving bowl.
  10. Finally, garnish with finely chopped fresh coriander leaves before serving.

Tools for making

  • Bowl - A bowl to clean and soak the chiura.
  • Pan - A pan to sauté the onions and cook the chiura.
  • Spatula - A spatula to stir and mix the ingredients in the pan.
  • Knife - A knife to finely chop the onions, green chillies, and coriander leaves.
  • Cutting Board - A cutting board to safely chop the vegetables.
  • Measuring Spoons - Measuring spoons to accurately measure the turmeric powder, cumin powder, and salt.

Recipe variations

  • Add vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers to the chiura for a colorful and nutritious variation.
  • Include cooked shredded chicken or paneer (Indian cottage cheese) to make it a more substantial meal.
  • For a spicier version, increase the amount of green chillies or add red chilli powder.
  • Experiment with different spices like garam masala or curry powder to enhance the flavor.
  • Try frying the chiura in ghee (clarified butter) instead of vegetable oil for a richer taste.
  • Add roasted peanuts or cashews for a crunchy texture.
  • For a refreshing twist, squeeze some lemon juice over the chiura before serving.
  • Include raisins or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
  • For a gluten-free option, use flattened rice made from brown rice instead of chiura.
  • Replace the water used for soaking with coconut milk for a creamy and aromatic version.

Recipe overview

Chiura is a traditional Nepalese dish made from beaten rice. It is a popular staple food in Nepal and is often served with other dishes like curry or yogurt. This simple, yet flavorful dish is quick to prepare, requiring only a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps. The recipe involves soaking the beaten rice until it softens, then sautéing it in a pan with onions, green chillies, and a mix of aromatic spices. The result is a satisfying, comforting dish that's perfect for any meal of the day. Whether you're new to Nepalese cuisine or are looking to expand your repertoire, this Chiura recipe is a straightforward and delicious place to start.

Common questions

  1. How do I clean the chiura? - Take the chiura in a bowl and clean it thoroughly with dry hands to remove any dirt or impurities.
  2. How long should I soak the chiura? - Soak the chiura in water for about 15-20 minutes until it softens.
  3. What type of oil should I use? - You can use any vegetable oil of your choice.
  4. How do I know when the onions are properly sautéed? - The onions should turn golden brown and have a slightly caramelized aroma.
  5. Can I adjust the spiciness of the recipe? - Yes, you can adjust the amount of green chillies according to your desired level of spiciness.
  6. Do I need to cook the chiura after adding it to the pan? - Yes, cook the chiura in the pan for a few minutes until it is fully cooked and well combined with the spices.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to soak and mix the chiura with the spices.
  • Pan - A non-stick or stainless steel pan for sautéing the onions and cooking the chiura.
  • Spatula - A utensil with a flat, wide, and flexible blade used for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pan.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for finely chopping the onions, green chillies, and coriander leaves.
  • Cutting Board - A sturdy surface for safely chopping the vegetables.
  • Measuring Cup - A cup for accurately measuring the water and oil.

Origin stories

Chiura, or beaten rice, is a staple food in many parts of Nepal, particularly in the hilly and mountainous regions. It's more than just a substitute for rice; it's a symbol of celebration and new beginnings. It's traditionally served to brides and grooms during weddings, and it's a must-have during Dashain, Nepal's longest and most auspicious festival. While the preparation may be simple, the place of chiura in the hearts and homes of Nepalis is anything but. It's a food that brings families together, that accompanies laughter and stories over a warm fire, and that marks the milestones of life. So next time you enjoy a bowl of chiura, remember that you're partaking in a tradition steeped in culture and shared by millions across the peaks and valleys of Nepal.

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.