Ghiu bhat (butter rice) is incredibly simple to make yet incredibly flavourful and indulgent with a combination of clarified butter/ghee, and aromatic bay leaf and cardamom. The combination of ingredients creates a flavourful and indulgent dish that is perfect for special occasions or gatherings. The aroma of the bay leaves and cardamom infuse the rice with a warm, comforting fragrance that is sure to make your mouth water. And the richness of the ghiu (clarified butter/ghee) adds a decadent touch that makes this dish perfect for any special occasion. Whether you're looking for a carbohydrate dish to serve with your favourite curry or you just want to indulge in a delicious and comforting rice dish, ghiu bhat is the perfect choice. This will leave an unforgettable melody of flavours in your mouth.
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What is Ghiu?
Ghiu, also known as ghee, is a type of clarified butter that is a staple in Nepali cuisine. It is made by slowly cooking butter over low heat until the milk solids separate and brown, leaving behind only the pure butterfat. This process removes any impurities and moisture, resulting in a smooth and fragrant spread that is shelf-stable and has a high smoke point, making it ideal for cooking and frying.
The process of clarifying also removes lactose and casein, making it suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or have dairy sensitivities.
Its nutty, caramelized flavor adds depth and richness to any dish, especially rice. So this ghiu bhat (butter rice) combination is truly indulgent!
Tips and Pearls for making Ghiu Bhat (Butter Rice)
- Soak the basmati rice for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will help to soften the rice and make it cook more evenly.
- Toast the rice in ghiu and spices for a few minutes before adding water. This will help to enhance the flavour of the rice.
Ghiu Bhat (Nepali Butter Rice) घिउ भात
Ingredients
- 2 cup Basmati rice
- 4 tablespoon Ghiu/Ghee Clarified Butter
- 3 Dried Bay leaf
- 4 Green cardamom
- 4 cup Water 3- 4 cups depending on which method you use for cooking the rice
- ½ teaspoon Salt
Instructions
Prepare the rice
- Rinsing: Before cooking the rice, rinse it with water 3-4 times to remove excess starch. This is important to make sure that the basmati rice is light and fluffy and to avoid sogginess.
- Soaking:After rinsing the rice, place it in a bowl and cover it with water. Soak the rice for 30 minutes before draining. This helps to soften the rice and make it cook more evenly.
Toast the rice
- Preparing the Ghee and Spices:In a cooking pot that is large enough to hold the rice, heat up ghee over medium heat. Once the ghee is melted, add the bay leaf and cardamom and cook for about 30 seconds to a minute until fragrant. This will infuse the ghee with the aromatic flavours of the spices.
- Adding the Rice: Add the soaked rice (without the water) to the cooking pot with the ghee and spices. Add the salt. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help to toast the rice and enhance its flavour.
Cook the rice- 3 different methods you can choose
For stovetop cooking in a pot
- Add 4 cups of water to the pot, stir, and then place the lid on the cooking pot. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes. Turn off the heat, leave the lid on, and let the rice rest for 5 minutes before plating.
For microwave cooking
- Add 3 cups of water to a microwavable container, stir, and then place a lid or cling film on top. Make sure to leave a small gap for steam to escape. Microwave on high heat for 12 minutes. At the 8-minute mark, stir the rice and cook again for another 4 minutes. Turn off the heat, leave the lid on, and let the rice rest for 5 minutes before plating.
For rice cooker cooking
- Add 3 cups of water to the rice cooker, stir, and then turn it on. The rice cooker will automatically turn off when the rice is done.
Fluffing and Serving
- Once the rice is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes with the lid on. Then, use a spatula to gently toss the rice to fluff it up. This will help to separate the grains and make them fluffy.
- Serve the butter rice (Ghiu Bhat) hot and enjoy the delicious and aromatic flavours.
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