1.5 Cups Rettai Kili basmati rice
2 to 3 generous pinch of saffron or kesar
¾ tsp caraway seeds/shah jeera
2 green cardamom
1 bay leaf/tej patta
1 inch cinnamon
2 cloves
1 strand of mace
3 or 3¼ cups water
A pinch of turmeric (optional)
1.5 tbsp oil or ghee or unsalted butter
A few coriander or mint leaves and few dry fruits
For garnish (optional)
Salt as required
1. Rinse the rice for 3-4 times in water.
2. Soak the rice for 20-30 mins in water.
3. Drain the water and keep the rice aside.
4. Heat oil or ghee or unsalted butter in a deep pan or pot.
5. Add all the whole spices including shahi jeera.
6. Fry till the oil becomes fragrant.
7. Add soaked rice.
8. Stir for 1-2 minutes.
9. Crush the saffron with your fingers or in a mortar-pestle and add these to the rice.
10. Add turmeric powder now if you plan to add it.
11. Stir.
12. Add water along with salt.
13. Do check the rice for a couple of times when its cooking.
14. Once done, fluff gently with a fork.
15. Serve the saffron rice garnished with coriander or mint leaves with any dal or indian curry.
Find it online: https://rettaikili.in/cook-with-rettaikili/