Samak Rice Pulao Recipe

(Samak rice, also called Barnyard millet or vrat ke chawal, is commonly consumed during Hindu fasting periods like Navratri.)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Samak rice (Barnyard millet)
• 2 tablespoons ghee (or oil)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
• 1-2 green chilies, chopped
• 1-inch piece of ginger, finely chopped
• 1 medium potato, peeled and cubed
• 1-2 carrots, chopped (optional)
• 1/2 cup green peas (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon rock salt (sendha namak) or regular salt (for non-fasting)
• 2 cups water
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
• A pinch of black pepper or cinnamon powder (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the Samak rice:
   • Wash the Samak rice 2-3 times under running water, and then soak it for 15-20 minutes.
2. Heat the ghee/oil:
   • In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the ghee on medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
3. Add spices:
   • Add chopped green chilies and ginger, sauté for a minute until fragrant.
4. Cook the vegetables:
   • Add the cubed potatoes (and other optional veggies like carrots and peas). Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
5. Add Samak rice:
   • Drain the soaked Samak rice and add it to the pan. Stir well to combine with the veggies.
6. Add water and salt:
   • Pour 2 cups of water and add rock salt. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil.
7. Cook the rice:
   • Once the water starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let the rice cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed, and the rice is cooked.
8. Garnish:
   • Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves, and a pinch of black pepper or cinnamon if desired.

Serve:

• Serve the Samak rice pulao hot with yogurt (curd) or vrat-friendly chutney.

Enjoy this delicious, light, and wholesome fasting dish!