Ghee Rice with Fried Cashews
Lunch • India
How to Make Ghee Rice with Fried Cashews (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Ghee Rice with Fried Cashews is a beloved South Indian dish known for its aromatic flavors and festive appeal. This dish, often called 'Neychoru' in Kerala and 'Neyyi Annam' in Telugu households, is prepared using premium quality basmati rice cooked in pure homemade ghee (clarified butter) and garnished with golden fried cashews. The subtle fragrance of spices like elaichi (cardamom), dalchini (cinnamon), and bay leaf, combined with the richness of ghee, makes this rice a popular choice during special occasions, weddings, and festivals such as Onam and Vishu. Ghee Rice with Fried Cashews is not just about indulgence—it's a celebration of South Indian culinary heritage. The dish strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and festivity, making it a staple at traditional feasts or as an accompaniment to spicy curries like vegetable kurma or dal. Its mild, nutty flavor and fluffy texture make it appealing to both children and adults, while the fried cashews add a delightful crunch. Enjoyed across Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, Ghee Rice with Fried Cashews brings the warmth of Indian tradition to your plate and is perfect for lunch, especially during festive gatherings.
Ingredients(for 1 cup cooked rice (approx. 150g))
- 1 cup Basmati rice (long-grain rice for best aroma)
- 2 tablespoons Ghee (clarified butter) (homemade or store-bought)
- 10-12 pieces Cashew nuts (kaju) (whole or split)
- 1 small Onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 inch stick Cinnamon (dalchini)
- 2 Cardamom pods (elaichi) (lightly crushed)
- 2 Cloves (laung)
- 1 Bay leaf (tej patta)
- as required Salt
- 2 cups Water (for cooking rice)
- 1 tablespoon Coriander leaves (finely chopped, for garnish) - optional
- 3-4 Black peppercorns (optional, for subtle heat) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Wash the basmati rice thoroughly in water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice for 15 minutes and then drain.
15 minutes
Soaking basmati rice ensures longer, fluffier grains.
- 2
Heat 1.5 tablespoons ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan or 'kadai'. Add cashew nuts and fry until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3 minutes
Keep the flame medium and stir continuously to avoid burning the cashews.
- 3
In the same kadai, add whole spices—dalchini, elaichi, laung, tej patta, and optional peppercorns. Sauté for 30 seconds until aromatic.
1 minute
Frying spices in ghee releases their essential oils for maximum flavor.
- 4
Add sliced onions to the pan and sauté till they turn translucent and slightly golden.
4 minutes
Do not over-brown the onions for a subtle sweetness.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This version of Ghee Rice with Fried Cashews uses a moderate amount of ghee and includes nuts for extra nutrition, making it suitable for a health-conscious diet. By using basmati rice, which has a lower glycemic index than regular rice, and including wholesome spices, the dish supports sustained energy release and better digestion. Limiting fried components and portion size ensures calorie control for those tracking their macros.
Ghee Rice with Fried Cashews provides a balanced combination of complex carbohydrates from basmati rice, healthy fats from ghee, and protein from cashews. Ghee is rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K, while cashews add magnesium, zinc, and heart-healthy unsaturated fats. Using limited ghee keeps the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor. Onions provide antioxidants, and spices like cardamom and cinnamon support digestion. This dish is naturally gluten-free and can be made more nutritious by adding vegetables.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use aged basmati rice for the best aroma and fluffy grains.
- 💡Tip 2: Fry cashews on medium heat for an even golden color without burning.
- 💡Tip 3: Add a few saffron strands soaked in warm milk for a festive touch and extra aroma.
Storage & Serving
Cool to room temperature before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat by steaming or microwaving with a sprinkle of water to maintain moisture. Avoid freezing as rice texture may change.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 320.0 kcal |
