Bagara Rice (Bagara Chawal, Bagara Annam, or Bagara Khana) is a traditional Hyderabadi dish made using rice, onions, herbs, and spices. It is best served with salan or korma. Here is how to make it in a pot over the stovetop or in an instant pot (vegetarian, gluten-free, can be easily made vegan).
Instant Pot RecipeRinse rice with water 2-3 times until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in 5 cups of water for 15-20 minutes.Press SAUTE button of the instant pot.Add ghee to the pot.Once the ghee is hot, add green cardamoms, cloves, cinnamon, bay leaves, and black peppercorns and let them crackle for 5-6 seconds.Add cashew nuts and fry until they turn slightly brown (40-60 seconds). Keep stirring while frying.Add onions, green chilies, ginger, and garlic, and cook for 6-8 minutes until the onions are lightly browned.Keep stirring while frying.Now add mint leaves and cilantro and saute for a minute.Add 2 and ¼ cups of water, salt, garam masala powder, and lime juice.Drain the water from the rice and add it to the pot and stir gently.Close the lid of the pot and set the valve to the sealing position.Press PRESSURE COOK and set the timer to 6 minutes at high pressure.Once the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes.Release the remaining pressure manually and open the lid of the pot.Fluff the rice gently using a large fork and serve hot.NotesYou can make it healthier and wholesome by adding veggies like carrots, green beans, cauliflower, etc.This recipe can be easily scaled up or down as per your requirement.