Discover the delightful harmony of flavors in our Mung Beans and Rice recipe, a beloved staple of Indian cuisine that promises to transport your taste buds straight to the heart of India! This wholesome dish is not only incredibly easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it the perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal prep option. With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 45 minutes of your time, you'll have a comforting bowl of goodness that is sure to impress your family and friends. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup mung beans
- 1 cup rice
- 4 cups water
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil
Instructions
- Rinse the mung beans and rice thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear, removing any debris or impurities.
- In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cumin to the onions, stirring continuously for 30-45 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant and releases its aroma.
- Add the rinsed mung beans and rice to the pot, stirring to coat them with the aromatic oil and spices.
- Pour in 4 cups of water and add salt to taste. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let simmer for 25-30 minutes.
- Check the beans and rice periodically, ensuring they do not stick to the bottom of the pot. Add a little more water if needed.
- The dish is ready when the mung beans are tender and the rice is fully cooked, with a soft but not mushy consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and excess moisture to be absorbed.
- Fluff the mung beans and rice with a fork before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Tips
- Rinse Thoroughly: Make sure to rinse the mung beans and rice well under cold water to remove any debris and excess starch. This step is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy texture.
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t skip the sautéing step! Cooking the onions until they're golden and adding garlic and cumin enhances the dish's aroma and depth of flavor.
- Watch the Water: Keep an eye on the pot as it simmers. If the mixture looks too dry or starts to stick, add a splash more water to keep everything moist and prevent burning.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully and ensures the perfect consistency.
- Garnish for Freshness: Elevate your dish by garnishing with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. It adds a refreshing touch that brightens up the entire meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
