Subz Tehri
A fragrant one-pot rice dish from Awadhi cuisine, where basmati rice is cooked with mixed vegetables and aromatic spices. This comforting and wholesome meal is perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
For 4 servings
8 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold running water until the water is clear. Soak the rice in ample water for 30 minutes, then drain it completely using a colander.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Temper the spices: Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle. Then add the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cloves, and crushed green cardamom. Sauté for about 30-45 seconds until fragrant.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Sauté aromatics: Add the sliced onions and sauté for 6-8 minutes until they turn golden brown. Add the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies, and cook for another minute until the raw aroma disappears.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Cook vegetables and spices: Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and pulpy. Now, add all the diced vegetables (potatoes, carrots, peas, beans) along with the spice powders (turmeric, red chili, coriander) and salt. Stir well and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to get coated with the masala.
- 5
Combine with rice: Add the drained, soaked rice to the pot
- a.Gently fold it with the vegetable masala for about a minute, being careful not to break the delicate rice grains.
- 6
Cook the Tehri: Pour in 3 cups of hot water and stir gently
- a.Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes without opening the lid.
- 7
Rest and garnish: After the cooking time, turn off the heat but keep the lid on
- a.Let the tehri rest for at least 10 minutes. This step is crucial for fluffy, separate grains. After resting, open the lid, sprinkle garam masala, fresh coriander leaves, and lemon juice (if using). Gently fluff the rice with a fork.
- 8
Step 8
- a.Serve: Serve the hot Subz Tehri immediately with a side of plain yogurt, raita, or a simple salad.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Soaking the rice is non-negotiable for achieving long, fluffy, and non-sticky grains.
- 2Using hot water to cook the rice helps maintain the cooking temperature and results in better texture.
- 3Do not stir the rice while it's simmering. This can release starches and make the tehri mushy.
- 4The 10-minute resting period (dum) after cooking is essential for the flavors to meld and the grains to firm up.
- 5For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of ghee on top of the cooked tehri before serving.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add 1 cup of paneer cubes or soya chunks along with the vegetables for a protein-rich version. Sauté them lightly before adding to the pot.
Different VegetablesDifferent Vegetables
Feel free to use other vegetables like cauliflower florets, mushrooms, or bell peppers based on availability and preference.
Pressure Cooker MethodPressure Cooker Method
To make it faster, use a pressure cooker. Follow steps 1-5. After adding water, close the lid and cook for 2 whistles on medium heat. Let the pressure release naturally.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Increase the amount of green chilies and red chili powder, or add a pinch of black pepper powder along with the garam masala at the end.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Loaded with various vegetables like carrots, peas, and beans, this dish is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps maintain a healthy gut.
Provides Sustained Energy
The basmati rice provides complex carbohydrates, which are digested slowly, offering a steady release of energy and keeping you full for longer.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals
The assortment of vegetables contributes essential vitamins like Vitamin A (from carrots) and Vitamin C, along with minerals like potassium and iron, supporting overall health.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Spices like turmeric, ginger, and cloves used in Tehri are known for their powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help combat oxidative stress in the body.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Subz Tehri is a wholesome and balanced meal. It provides complex carbohydrates from rice, vitamins and fiber from a variety of vegetables, and healthy fats from ghee. It's a complete one-pot meal.