Veggie Delite Masala Rice

This wonderful rice is Vinuta S. Chitwadgi's recipe from the Thursday magazine.I hope you enjoy it!

• Ready In: 1 hr 6 mins
• Serves: 8

Ingredients

• 2  cups basmati rice, cleaned,washed and drained
• 1  large  brinjal, cut into medium-sized cubes
• 1  small cauliflower, cut into medium-sized florets
• 4 -5  cloves garlic, cut into halves
• 1  tablespoon  fresh curry leaf, washed and torn
• 2  tablespoons cashews
• 6  tablespoons ghee
• 1  teaspoon turmeric powder
• 4  cups water
•  salt

• For the dry whole garam masala

• 3  tablespoons cumin seeds
• 5 -6  cloves
• 6  inches cinnamon sticks
• 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Soak the cauliflower and brinjal cubes in water.
2. Keep aside.
3. Powder all the spices and keep aside.
4. Boil 5 cups water in a large pot.
5. While this is being done, heat ghee in a thick bottomed vessel.
6. Add cashewnuts and fry till lightly brown.
7. Add the curry leaves, garlic, the finely powdered masala and the turmeric powder.
8. Mix well.
9. Drain the water and add the brinjal and cauliflower to the masala mixture.
10. Cover and cook for 30 seconds.
11. Drain the rice fully.
12. Add it to the vessel.
13. Mix and fry for half a minute.
14. Add water and salt.
15. Mix well and cook on medium flame for a few seconds.
16. Cover and cook on simmer for 10 minutes.
17. Serve hot with a raita of your choice.
18. Enjoy!