Zucchini Rice
Zucchini rice is a great gluten free, vegan side dish along with main course for any time of the day. Serving for 4.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup shredded zucchini with skin
- 1 tbsp of oil
- 1 tsp of butter
- 1/2 tsp cumin seed jeera
- 1/2 tsp black mustard seed rai
- 4 red peppers whole
- 2 Bay Leaves tajpat
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 inch small piece of cinnamon stick dal chini
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Heat the oil and butter in a heavy saucepan over medium high heat.Test the heat by adding one cumin seed to oil; if the cumin cracks right away oil is ready.
- Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds to the oil. After seeds crack add red pepper and bay leaves. Add rice and stir-fry for about 2 minutes.
- Add water, zucchini, salt and lemon juice. Stir and bring to boil.
- After rice comes to a boil turn the heat down to low and cover the pan. Cook rice for about fifteen minutes or until the rice is tender and the water has evaporated.
- Serve as is, with soup, yogurt, and pickle.
Suggestions
- Melt some cheddar cheese over rice.
Variations
- Replace zucchini with 1 1/2 cup finally chopped spinach.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Elevate Your Cooking with Zucchini Rice: A Flavorful and Nutritious Delight
Zucchini rice offers a delightful gluten-free option for those seeking quick and easy vegan meals. Made primarily with rice and zucchini, this dish is not only flavorful but also nutritious. Zucchini, rich in vitamins and minerals, adds a refreshing crunch and subtle sweetness to the rice. With minimal ingredients and simple cooking methods, zucchini rice is perfect for busy weeknights or as a side dish for larger gatherings.
1. Heating the Oil and Butter: Preparing for Flavorful Zucchini Rice
Begin crafting the delightful zucchini rice by heating a combination of oil and butter in a sturdy saucepan over medium-high heat. To ensure the oil reaches the optimal temperature for sautéing, conduct a quick test by introducing a single cumin seed into the oil. If the seed crackles upon contact, it signifies that the oil is primed and ready to infuse its essence into the dish.
2. Tempering the Spices: Enhancing Aromatics in Zucchini Rice Recipe
Elevate the flavor profile of the rice zucchini recipe by adding a medley of aromatic spices to the heated oil and butter. Sprinkle in cumin seeds and mustard seeds, allowing them to crackle and release their enticing aroma into the culinary canvas. Follow this with the addition of red pepper and bay leaves, infusing the dish with layers of complexity and depth.
3. Sautéing the Rice: Fostering Texture and Flavor in Zucchini Rice Recipes
Introduce the rice to the fragrant spice blend, stirring vigorously to coat each grain with the aromatic oils. Continue to stir-fry the rice for approximately 2 minutes, coaxing out its nutty flavors and enhancing its texture in preparation for the upcoming infusion of moisture and flavor.
4. Adding Water and Zucchini: Building Layers of Flavor in Rice Zucchini Recipe
Elevate the zucchini rice recipe to new heights by incorporating water, fresh zucchini, salt, and a splash of invigorating lemon juice into the saucepan. Stir the mixture well, allowing the flavors to meld harmoniously as it comes to a gentle boil, infusing the rice with the vibrant essence of the zucchini and citrus.
5. Simmering to Perfection: Achieving Tender Texture in Zucchini Rice
Once the rice mixture reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan, initiating the gentle simmering process. Allow the rice to cook undisturbed for approximately fifteen minutes, or until the grains are tender and have absorbed the flavorful liquid, resulting in a tantalizing medley of textures and tastes in the completed zucchini rice recipes.
6. Serving Suggestions: Enhancing Enjoyment of Zucchini Rice
Indulge in the delightful simplicity of zucchini rice by serving it as is, alongside comforting accompaniments such as soup, yogurt, and pickle. For a decadent twist, consider melting a generous portion of cheddar cheese over the rice, imparting a luscious richness that elevates the dish to new heights of indulgence.
Suggestions for Variation: Experimenting with Flavors in Zucchini Rice
For a refreshing twist on the classic recipe, consider substituting zucchini with 1 1/2 cups of finely chopped spinach, infusing the dish with vibrant green hues and the earthy essence of leafy greens. This variation offers a delightful alternative for those seeking to explore new flavor profiles while retaining the comforting appeal of zucchini rice.
If you loved our zuchini rice recipe then you must also check out other variants of Rice: Vegetable Biryani, Masala Khichdi, Mango Rice, Quinoa Vegetable Pilaf and Lemon Rice.
Paul Barnier
March 17, 2021 at 3:00 amI just made this recipe recently and it was absolutely delicious! Thanks Manjua-ji!
Padma
August 9, 2016 at 9:01 amLoved ur recipe. You are very innovative. Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini.
Manjula Jain
August 11, 2016 at 4:17 pmPadma, yes squash will be good
chhanda mukherjee
April 21, 2015 at 11:43 amThe basmati rice is ‘atap or siddha ? Please explain .
matt nannery
March 8, 2014 at 6:06 pmdelicate and delicious.
i served it with baignan bartha.
it was such a nice meal, manjula!
Mona
December 15, 2013 at 5:49 amMadam, tried today for lunch & it tasted superb! My kids enjoyed it. Thank you for the simple & easy recipe.
mamatha
December 8, 2012 at 10:28 pmHi Manjula Ji, it was very nice recipe. I tried it , it came out so good and my kids loved it so much. Thank u for this recipe. I have often visited your site and ur recipes r simple and really good.
Aru
October 22, 2012 at 7:35 pmNice one! Always looking out to try to use Zucchini is different ways.
chitra
August 10, 2012 at 4:19 amnice recipe
chitra
August 10, 2012 at 4:12 ami want to know what is zucchini vegetable.
S Martin USA Connecticut
July 22, 2012 at 5:04 pmWonderful dish thank you for sharing this recipe. I did not have cumin seed or black mustard seed so i substituted ground cumin and ground mustard, which seemed to work well. I look forward to trying your other dishes. You have a beautiful spirit that shines in your video.
Rajamathy
July 11, 2012 at 7:52 amHi Manjula Aunty, Your recipes are very simple and delicious. Please post some simple recipes of burger, Sandwiches and pizzas to be prepared at home. Thank You.
Archana
May 31, 2012 at 3:53 amDifferent and amazing taste. We loved it.
Thanks.
priya khanna
April 11, 2012 at 9:51 pmhi manjula ji you are so sweet n softly spoken lady. i like u and watched ur all receipes all receipes are very excellent i tried all the receipes please post some soups recipes and other gud dishes please.
Regards
fatima
January 30, 2012 at 8:58 amthanks manjula i have visited your site first time i like your recipe and i will try your recipe it is so simple and easy to cook u r a best chef
Parveen Choudhary
August 30, 2011 at 9:15 amThanks Manjula Ji, it is very nice recipe. I have often visited your site and your recipes are really simple and good.
TracyLea
August 28, 2011 at 1:20 pmThis is a favorite lunch in my home. My son loves it. Sometimes I add small-diced potatoes and peas. I also make it in my rice cooker on occasion. I wash the rice in the cooker bowl and then let it soak in there while I get everything else ready. I use a small saucepan to heat the oil and butter and cook the spices and zucchini and then toss it with the rice and water in the cooker, give it a mix, and turn it on. It turns out perfect every time and I don’t have to worry about leaving it unattended and letting it burn. Handy when you have a toddler. Thank you for sharing so many great recipes!
Jen/The RA Vegan
June 19, 2011 at 6:55 pmThis recipe is wonderful! I made it tonight specifically to take for lunch this week and I really enjoyed it. I am excited to have found your site and to be able to try more! Thanks!
karina
May 18, 2011 at 2:31 amhi Manjula ji,
thanks thanks alot 4 ur Zucchini rice recipe . i tried it in lunch and u know my son(2+ )my husband just loved it. thanks for such a simple recipe .i just love ur cooking and u just make cooking soooo easy and delightful. thanx again for making tasteless veg like Zucchini so tasty.
marie
April 20, 2011 at 5:50 pmHi Munjal
i love the way you make cooking so simple and easy. I stopped eating meat 17 yrs ago but was so bored with food, i stumbled upon your kitchen one day while browsing now i try out your receipe every day.
you have given me great cooking ideas and my husband is enjoying meatless dishes
thanks
Subhashree
February 21, 2011 at 11:23 pmHi Manjula Aunty,
Your website is awesome. I am trying new recipes everyday and my hubby is full of praises. Thanks to you and your effort. Makes cooking so simple and delightful. Your passion for cooking is deeply appreciated
Cheers,
Shubha
SnehaArun
November 29, 2010 at 10:29 pmThanks Aunty for such a wonderful mildly-flavoured recipe! we really enjoyed our dinner today.
swapna
November 21, 2010 at 12:16 pmHi Manjula ji,
I have tried zucchini rice on friday for dinner. It was so delicious. my husband and my daughter(2 years old) loved it. Thank you very much for such a wonderful and easy to make recipe.
Dakshina
November 1, 2010 at 7:07 amThanks Manjula for the wonderful recipes! Makes cooking so simple and have started enjoying trying out different foods after visiting your blog!
Vidhya
March 21, 2011 at 5:46 amHi Manju,
I tried zucchini rice today.It is very nice.Thanks for your simple and delicious recipes….
Vidya Sudarsan
October 6, 2010 at 3:58 pmturned out really well!! thank you!
Vidya
selina
September 23, 2010 at 6:43 amthanks for sharing. i will ask my mom to read this , and she can cook it for me, hahaha
Sradhasish
August 6, 2010 at 3:49 amyah it was really great reciepe of rice and am sure everybody like it.
ksklein
July 4, 2010 at 11:53 pmMy brother made this yesterday for the whole family. It was delicious. Old memories from India returning. 🙂 (I´m from Germany and we stayed there 9 years.)
nanibee
January 16, 2010 at 4:37 pmI made this for a dinner party and all the guest loved it!!
I got soo many compliments!
Thank you soo much for sharing!
Rachel Williams
December 30, 2009 at 12:15 pmMy family loves this recipe. We really enjoy all your recipes we have tried. Thank you for sharing them. I get excited and can’t wait to see your new recipes!
Kavitha
December 8, 2009 at 11:54 amHello.. I tried this recipe today. It came out really well!
Thanks so much for sharing this.. Looking forward to many more such simple, yet tasty recipes..
urvashi
November 22, 2009 at 11:59 pmhi Manjula Aunty,
how r u doing?i saw ur zuchhini recipe,can u pls tell me what is Zuchhini?is it cucumber or something like that?
would u like to learn me some chinese recipe?
have a nice day.
keep showing us new delicious recipe.
thank you.
A
November 17, 2009 at 9:13 pmManjulaji,
Thank you for posting this recipe! It made my apartment fragrant and showed me a new way to make rice. I think your website is very helpful!
Layla
October 12, 2009 at 7:55 pmWhere can I get a round grater like you used to grate the zucchini? I can’t find one when I searched online, but I really like the one you have. Thank you.
nisha
October 12, 2009 at 6:00 pmhello madam i want your recipe of sambar saadham
swarupa
August 31, 2009 at 3:21 pmhi aunty,
what is the meaning of zucchini?
is it cucumber?
Jennidy
August 31, 2009 at 9:43 pmSwarupa,
Zucchini is also called courgette. It is a summer squash, and is usually green.
Jaya
September 1, 2009 at 7:52 amCucumber and zucchini only look similar, but they are not interchangeable. Use any type of “squash” vegetable that’s available in your area.
Kim
August 30, 2009 at 12:47 pmI really liked this and my Irish/French Canadian 81 year old Mom liked it too. I just used a little crushed chili for heat. Its still very good w/o the heat.
tina
August 15, 2009 at 1:30 pmCan I use cucumber instead of zukini
Manjula Jain
August 15, 2009 at 9:52 pmHello Tina, cucumber will not work but try any other squash or carrot.
Litta
August 6, 2009 at 8:05 amYour rice dishes are so very easy to make. Thank You
archana
August 11, 2009 at 7:28 amhi aunty,
rice was excellent.thanks for sharing.
chandrika
July 24, 2009 at 11:53 amHi Aunty,
I enjoyed watching you cooking. You are soo homely. I love you.
I asked my husband to try some out, looking at your kitchen.
Can U pl give a recipe for Mango pudding and gobi Manchuri.
Thanks
Missy
June 26, 2009 at 5:18 pmmanjula aunty…I just tried this…it was AWESOME…….Would u like to visit my website to check out my recipes?
amateurcooking,weebly.com
Kajal
April 22, 2009 at 11:40 amHi Manjula Auntie,
What is bay leaves, what do u call in Gujarati, Where should I buy it from?
Kajal
Manjula Jain
April 22, 2009 at 2:07 pmHi Kajal, Bay leaves in hindi is Taj pat and you can find this in any grocery store.
uma
March 11, 2009 at 7:28 amhi liked ur recipes but wann to konw wat is zucchini???
chitra
April 4, 2009 at 10:38 amZucchini is a tender, somewhat watery summer vegetable from the family of “squashes” or “gourds”; it resembles a cucumber but has a smooth green skin; it is extremely versatile – can slice, batter-dip and deep fry it for a hot snack, can grate and mix with flour and egg for ‘latkes’ (potato pancakes), can grill it with just some olive oil and salt, make breads and muffins with it as in banana bread, or simply saute it with spices of choice.
sushmalohit
February 27, 2009 at 1:07 amcan u tell me wat is zucchini called in hindi or kannada plz
Jaya
February 27, 2009 at 6:30 amZucchini is also called Italian Squash in the US.
For hindi, try Tori/Turaii, however, any gourd/squash vegetable will do for this recipe. It doesn’t have to be only zucchini.
sharon
February 23, 2009 at 7:43 pmI made this rice tonight and it was amazing. This was my first attempt at indian food and I can’t wait to cook something else tomorrow! The videos are a huge help, thank you so much for taking the time to do this.
Deborah
February 17, 2009 at 5:05 pmI made this for dinner tonight and my family loved it. I didn’t have zucchini, so I used thinly sliced red swiss chard. WONDERFUL! I served it with your recipe for Chana Masala and that was great too. I served the meal with my homemade papaya chutney.
Monica
January 6, 2009 at 10:40 pmManjulaji this dish is what I am going to try .. could you give us the receipe for lemon Rice ? We used to eat a lot of that in India especially in the South. We used to take the cooked rice on trips and picnics – I make efforts to make the rice but it does not turn out the same.
Please and thank you. Monica
keerthi
November 11, 2008 at 11:22 pmhello maam,
Earlier I used to download ur recipies. But offlate im not able to do it.
Katie
August 20, 2008 at 9:19 pmThis feels like a silly question, but the rice is uncooked isn’t it? I cooked it beforehand and it turned out kind of mushy and soggy. From the video it seemed like it was supposed to be cooked. But still, it got two out of three thumbs up from my kids per your suggestion to my question in the malai kofta. Thank you so much!!!
resham
July 9, 2008 at 9:50 amthis rice was yummy…i added tomato chutney [the one we add in tomato rice]. it became altogether a yummmmyyyy dish…evryone liked it in my hubby’s ‘dabba’….pls teach us some more zucchini recipie…i buy vegetables frm cub foods…so i have very repetitive choice….thanks once again…stay good
nasrin
May 16, 2008 at 6:25 pmnamaste manjula aunty ,u r greate .this rice looks very good. may be i make tomorrow since i have zucunni in my refrigrator.thank u to share very nice and easy recipe with us.
good luck for new easy recipe .i am waiting your new recipe.
-nasrin
Manjula Jain
April 13, 2008 at 7:50 pmHello Sindhu when you are making yogurt gravy add the salt towards the end so yogurt does not break, and zucchini is also known summer squash or Italian squash
Mrs. Tanvi T. Joshi
April 13, 2008 at 3:45 pmNamaste,
I made Rasgullas and Ras malai after watching your vedios. It was really delicious and we enjoyed it. Thanks for the same.
Mubeena Khan
April 13, 2008 at 7:50 amHi Manjulaji,
I tried your recipe Gulaab Jamun.It was very tasty.Thanks for the nice recipe.
Sindhu Sharma
April 13, 2008 at 2:15 amHello Aunty,
Your Zuchini rice is very good.However, could you tell me the Indian name for Zucchini ? I could not find it anywhere on the web.
Also, while making yogurt gravy, even though I added besan, my yogurt started breaking,even after continous stirring. Can you please suggest some option?
I live in France
PS: I have blogrolled you 🙂
Thanks
-Sindhu
Tiff
April 12, 2008 at 11:02 pmYou’re original and traditional recipes are so inventive and tasty! Have you ever thought about publishing a book? Thanks so much for all your work and for sharing your delicious ideas. Blessings for you and your family.
Janvi
April 11, 2008 at 5:13 amHi Manjula Ji,
We tried the Zucchini Rice today for lunch and it came out very well.
Keep posting more videos… Thanks !!!
Regards,
Janvi
Jason
March 20, 2008 at 2:56 pmMy wife and I both loved your zucchini rice! Keep making videos…they are helping us to make delicious food! Thanks!
Manjula Jain
March 18, 2008 at 1:00 pmI will be doing new recipes very soon
Pavani
March 18, 2008 at 12:34 pmHi Manjula ji,
I watch your recipe videos everyday. Manula ji please try to add more recipe videos.
Please add recipes which are easy to cook. I made bread pakora after watching your recipe video. It came out really good and my family members ate nicely. Your recipe vidoes are really good. I saw zuchinni rice video, can you please tell me how it looks and where can i find it. We stay in California.
Thanks,
Regards,
Pavani.