Wedding Traditions: What Yellow Rice is Tossed at an Indian Wedding, and How Do You Cook It?

Kohinoor Basmati rice, which is traditionally thrown at Indian weddings, makes for a delicious dish

Every wedding has its own set of customs. Here’s one that both serves as a tradition and a delicious treat.

Dear Wedding Guru: “How do you prepare the yellow Indian rice that is thrown at the couple in an Indian wedding?”

(Continued on next page)

- Advertisement -

Dear Hudson Valley wedding guest: Yellow rice is traditionally thrown during Indian weddings for good luck. Here’s a recipe from an Indian chef in New York City. (Of course, I don’t advocate throwing this delicious rice, but instead, eating it!)

Lal Mahal (also called Kohinoor Basmati Rice)

2 cups basmati rice
2 Tbsp ghee (or oil)
1 stick (2 in.) cinnamon
2 whole cloves
4 cardamon seeds
½ tsp turmeric
2 dried chilies
Salt, to taste
½ frozen peas
2 cups water

Rinse rice in two changes of water. Allow to rest, covered in fresh water for about an hour.
Heat ghee or oil in heavy-bottomed pot.
Add whole spices, salt and turmeric.
Add drained rice and stir until rice becomes opaque.
Add water and peas, and bring to a boil.
Turn down heat to medium-low and cover pot until rice is tender, about 20 minutes.

- Partner Content -

Wedding Traditions: What Yellow Rice is Tossed at an Indian Wedding, and How Do You Cook It?

Our Digital Partners