🌿 Mint Rice (Pudina Rice)

A fragrant South Indian-style rice dish made with fresh mint, spices, and sautéed aromatics — refreshing, vibrant, and packed with flavor.

🧂 Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
For the Mint Paste:
1 cup fresh mint leaves (pudina)

1/2 cup fresh coriander leaves (optional, for balance)

2–3 green chilies (adjust to spice level)

1-inch piece ginger

3–4 cloves garlic

1–2 tbsp water (to blend)

For the Rice:
2 cups cooked rice (preferably cooled, long-grain or basmati)

1 tbsp oil or ghee

1/2 tsp mustard seeds

1/2 tsp cumin seeds

1–2 dried red chilies

1 small onion, thinly sliced

8–10 curry leaves

Salt to taste

1/4 tsp turmeric powder (optional, for color)

1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Make the Mint Paste
Blend mint, coriander, green chilies, ginger, and garlic with a little water to a smooth paste. Set aside.

Step 2: Temper and Sauté
Heat oil or ghee in a pan.

Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter.

Add dried red chilies, curry leaves, and sliced onions.

Sauté until onions are soft and golden.

Step 3: Cook the Paste
Add the mint paste to the pan. Sauté on medium heat until the raw aroma disappears and oil starts to separate (4–5 minutes).

Add turmeric powder and salt.

Step 4: Mix with Rice
Add the cooked rice and gently mix until all grains are well coated with the mint masala.

Adjust seasoning and drizzle lemon juice if using. Mix and heat through.

🍽️ Serve With:
Raita (Mint or Boondi)

Papad or Fryums

South Indian pickles or plain yogurt

Paneer curry or Chicken curry (optional)

💡 Welza Tip:
For the freshest aroma, use Welza Whole Cumin Seeds, Dried Red Chillies, and freshly plucked Mint Leaves. A spoonful of Welza Ghee elevates the richness beautifully!