Basmati rice with sugar snap peas and green chiles

Basmati rice with sugar snap peas and green chiles combines the nutty flavor of Basmati with the fresh taste of peas and a hint of jalapeno heat. This dish is ideal as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish.

12 Feb 2026
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 25 min

Ingredients:

1 tsp mustard seeds
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup white rice
1/2 lb peas
4 onions
1 tsp salt
1.50 cups water
1 jalapeno pepper

Basmati rice with sugar snap peas and green chiles is a delicious and aromatic dish that brings together the nutty flavor of Basmati rice with the vibrant, fresh taste of sugar snap peas and a hint of heat from green chiles. This fusion dish is perfect for a light lunch or a flavorful side dish that will complement any main course.

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Set it aside to drain.
- Peel and finely chop the onions.
- Wash the sugar snap peas and trim the ends.
- Seed and finely chop the jalapeno pepper. If you prefer more heat, you can include some of the seeds.

2. Cooking:
- Heat the olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds. Allow them to sizzle and pop; this should take about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the chopped onions to the pan and sauté them until they become translucent and start to brown slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped jalapeno pepper to the pan and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Combining Ingredients:
- Add the rinsed and drained basmati rice to the pan. Stir well to coat the rice with the oil, onions, and spices. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, to lightly toast the rice.
- Pour in 1.5 cups of water and add 1 tsp of salt. Stir to combine.

4. Cooking the Rice:
- Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

5. Adding the Peas:
- After 10 minutes, quickly lift the lid and scatter the sugar snap peas on top of the rice.
- Replace the lid and continue to cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the rice to finish cooking and the sugar snap peas to steam.

6. Steaming:
- Once the cooking time is up, remove the pan from the heat but keep it covered. Let it sit for an additional 5 minutes to ensure the rice is fully cooked and fluffy.

7. Final Touches:
- Fluff the rice gently with a fork to mix the peas throughout the rice evenly.

8. Serving:
- Serve your Basmati Rice with Sugar Snap Peas and Green Chiles hot as a delightful side dish or a light main course. Enjoy!

Your Basmati rice with sugar snap peas and green chiles is now ready to serve. This simple yet flavorful dish is sure to impress with its aromatic ingredients and delightful taste. Enjoy it as a light meal on its own or as a side to your favorite mains. Bon appétit!

Basmati rice with sugar snap peas and green chiles FAQ:

What is the cooking time for basmati rice in this recipe?

The total cooking time for the basmati rice is about 15 minutes. This includes 10 minutes of simmering, after which sugar snap peas are added and cooked for an additional 5 minutes. It's then recommended to let it sit for another 5 minutes off the heat.

Can I use a different type of rice instead of basmati?

Yes, you can use other long-grain rice varieties, such as jasmine rice, but cooking times may vary slightly. Adjust the water and cooking time according to the specific rice used.

How should I store leftovers of this dish?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying.

What can I use instead of jalapeño for less heat?

If you prefer less heat, you can skip the jalapeño or replace it with a milder pepper such as a bell pepper or a small amount of diced green bell pepper.

How do I know when the rice is fully cooked?

The rice is fully cooked when all the water has been absorbed, is tender, and fluffy when fluffed with a fork. If it’s still hard, add a bit more water and continue cooking on low heat until done.

Cooking Tips:

- Rinse the Basmati rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent the rice from becoming too sticky.

- For an extra layer of flavor, you can lightly toast the Basmati rice in the olive oil before adding the water.

- If you prefer a milder dish, remove the seeds from the jalapeno pepper before chopping.

- You can add a handful of fresh herbs like cilantro or mint at the end for a burst of freshness.

- For a protein boost, consider adding some cooked chickpeas or tofu to the rice.

Nutrition Facts

6 Servings
Calories 150kcal
Protein 4.33g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 2.40g
Sugar 2.40g
Fat 2.69g

Basmati rice with sugar snap peas and green chiles