Masale Bhaat

Maharashtrian Masale bhaat is the spicy Pulao that we prepare on special occasions and festivities. Masale bhaat literally translates to the Masala-spices Bhaat- rice. This dish is made with variety of spices and rice. Gosh, the aroma of spices in rice cannot be described.  

So when you are running out of Rice varieties and want something cool to show off, this Masale bhaat is sure to please the crowd.

One of my Aunt always adds paste of fresh coconut and lots of coriander to make the Masale bhaat look green. I am a fan of this green Masale Bhaat than the regular one. So here is my way of Masale bhaat below:

Masale Bhaat
Preparation Time: 15 mins
Cooking time: 20 mins
Servings: 4 

Ingredients:

• 2-3 cloves
• 3 bay leaves
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 2 star anise
• 1 inch ginger grated
• 2-3 pepper corns
• 1 inch cinnamon
• 1 and 1/2 cup Basmati rice
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 2 tbsp oil
• 4-5 sprigs of mint leaves
• 4-5 sprigs of coriander
• 3 tbsp of fresh coconut 
• salt to taste
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 cup french beans
• 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup green peas
• 2 green chillies
• 2 cups water

Instructions:

1. Soak basmati rice for 30 minutes.
2. In a deep pan heat oil on medium flame.
3. Add cloves, anise, bay leaves, peppercorns, cinnamon and ginger to the oil.
4. Meanwhile, grind mint, coriander, fresh coconut and chilies to a smooth paste.
5. Once the spices are roasted properly, add the coconut and coriander paste and mix it well.
6. Add beans, carrots and green peas to the pan and saute till all dentee
7. Once the vegetables are almost cooked, add water to the pan and let it boil.
8. Once the water starts bubbling, add rice and cover the pan with lid.
9. Let the rice cook for 15 minutes in the pan.
10. After 15 minutes check if the rice is cooked, if not cooked, let it cook for another 5 minutes.
11. Do not stir the rice rigorously, it might break the rice grains.
12. Serve hot with yogurt or raita.