Sesame seeds, turmeric, and tamarind paste bring their distinctive flavors to this easy to make rice dish. It involves a few exotic ingredients, but they will be well worth visiting a food specialty shop to obtain!
INGREDIENTS (for 8 servings):
- 3 cups water
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 1/2 cup tamarind paste
- 1 pinch ground turmeric
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sesame seeds
- fresh cilantro, for garnish
PREPARATION:
In a medium saucepan, bring water and rice to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 20 minutes, until liquid has been absorbed. Fluff rice with a fork.
Heat 1/2 the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat, and saute the garlic paste and ginger paste until lightly browned. Mix in the tamarind paste, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Gradually mix in the rice. Cook and stir until well coated.
Heat the remaining oil in a small skillet, and saute sesame seeds until lightly browned. Mix into the rice mixture. Garnish with cilantro to serve.