Whether as a side dish or main course, this Sunny Marigold Rice is delightful on its own and comes packed with impressive health benefits. Rice is beautifully colorful and aromatics tall and stems are complimenting glutenous rice. The dish has aromatic essential attributes and blends with any meal while enhancing the overall elegance. While great on its own, the marigold stems also help in elevating the overall dish. The dried marigold and turmeric flower give this dish its signature color.
Health Benefits Of Marigold
Like many ornamental plants, Marigold flowers, aka calendula, have contributed heavily to the world of healing. Here are some of the benefits that come along with Marigold flowers:
- Helps body recover from disease – Helps in the restoration of a body after any disease that causes inflammation.
- High value in antioxidant – Slows down the aging process of cells.
- Maximizes absorption – Helps with the health of the stomach and alleviate pry.
- Skin wellness booster – Prominent active ingredients lead to soothing and healing skin issues.
Requirements
To prepare Sunny Marigold Rice, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup rice (preferably jasmine or basmati)
- 2 cups of water or broth.
- 1 tbsp olive oil.
- 1/4 cup dried Marigold flowers.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
Guideline For The Cooking Process
- Get The Rice Ready: Soak the rice till the surface water is fully cleaned.
- Cook The Rice: Bring water or broth to boil over high flame in a saucepot. Add the rinsed rice, olive oil, turmeric along with a little salt.
- Soak: Turn on head to low and place the lid on the sauce pan. Let it steam for 15 to 18 min till it dried out.
- Sauté Marigold Flowers: Heat some olive oil in a pan until it is hot, and while the oil is heating to the right temperature, dry marigold flower petals should be added. Fry the mixture for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes aromatic.
- Flant the Dish: Fluff the rice with a fork and add in the petals from the marigold flowers. Add appropriate amounts of salt and pepper and blend thoroughly. Serve after the rice cools off a bit and add some flower petals on the top for garnishing.
- Garnishing the Dish: For colourful appearances, serve the marigold rice alongside flowers petals for decoration.
Condiments and Ingredients
Grinded turmeric gives a Sunny Marigold Rice its texture and earthy finish while also floral notes, which makes it's flavor moderate. For best effects, Sunny Marigold Rice is best served with:
- Fish or chicken that is grilled
- Vegetables that are roasted
- Dishes centered around curry
- Different kinds of Mideastern and Indian food
Advice on how to Cook Rice the Right Way
- Choose the right type of rice to of the proper grade and region planted, it's texture and flavor would be on point.
- Wash the rice before cooking to get rid of any excess stickiness.
- Avoid touching the cooking rice if the lid is on to multi-task, it will tamper with the cooking steam.
- Once the rice has been cooked, leave it for five minutes before blending it.
How to adjust the marigold rice recipe
- Change the spices: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the mixture.
- Nutty Touch: Blend some cashews or toasted almonds.
- Coconut Twist: For creaminess, substitute water with coconut milk.
- Herbal Infusion: Add fresh basil or cilantro for a more refreshing flavor.
Storing and Reheating
- Storage: Place leftover rice in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days.
- Reheating: Heat using a skillet for 1-2 mins, or in the microwave.
- Freezing: Store in freezer-safe bags for 1 month.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use fresh marigold flowers instead of dried?
Yes! Fresh petals of marigold can be used, but must first be chopped and added at the end of cooking.
2. Is marigold rice safe for children?
Absolutely! Marigold flowers are edible, but always check for allergies.
3. Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can easily substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
4. Where can I buy dried marigold flowers?
These can be found in health food stores, herbal shops, or on various online websites.
5. What type of rice works best for this recipe?
Jasmine or basmati rice work best for this recipe due to its fluffiness and fragrance.
6. Is it possible to make this rice ahead of time?
Absolutely yes! Rice that has already been prepared can be kept for future use and can also be reheated with minimal effort.
Conclusion
As a dish, Sunny Marigold Rice goes beyond being just food. It is an experience in itself. Its golden colors, fragrant smell, and assorted health benefits makes it suitable for any dish. Do so paving a little room for sunshine in your meal and try it today!