Somali Vegetable Rice (Iskudhexkaris)
A vibrant and flavorful one-pot rice dish cooked with a medley of vegetables and aromatic Somali spices. Iskudhexkaris, meaning 'mixed together,' perfectly describes this comforting and wholesome meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Basmati rice(rinsed and drained)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 medium Carrots(diced)
- 1 large Potato(diced)
- 1 medium Green bell pepper(diced)
- 1 medium Tomato(diced)
- 3.5 cups Water or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp Ground cumin
- 1 tsp Ground coriander
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric powder
- 0.5 tsp Ground cardamom
- 0.25 tsp Ground cinnamon
- to taste Salt
- 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside to drain.
- 2
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cardamom, and cinnamon. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
- 5
Add the diced carrots, potato, green bell pepper, and tomato to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- 6
Pour in the water or vegetable broth and add salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- 7
Add the drained basmati rice to the pot. Stir gently to combine. Once the liquid returns to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- 8
Let the rice rest, covered, off the heat for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the rice is rinsed well to remove excess starch for a fluffy texture.
- ✓Adjust the amount of water if needed, depending on the type of rice used.
- ✓Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or zucchini.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of saffron for a richer color and flavor.
- Include a cinnamon stick or a few cardamom pods during cooking for more intense spice notes.
- For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, beef, or lamb pieces.