Masala Bhaat is a flavorful and aromatic spiced rice dish popular in Maharashtrian cuisine. It is made with basmati rice cooked with a blend of spices, vegetables, and sometimes peanuts, creating a delicious one-pot meal. This rice dish is typically served with a side of raita (yogurt-based side dish) or papad.
Here’s how to make Masala Bhaat at home:

Masala Bhaat Recipe | What Is The Recipe Of Masala Bhaat
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked rice chawal , soaked for 15 minutes and drained
- 1 tsp oil
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds jeera
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
- a pinch of asafoetida hing
- 12 of ginger adrak , grated
- 2 tsp finely chopped green chillies
- 1/2 cup sliced tendli
- 1/2 cup green peas
- salt to taste
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder haldi
- 1/2 cup brinjal baingan / eggplant cubes
For The Dry Spice Powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds jeera
- 1/2 tsp coriander dhania seeds
- 3 cloves laung / lavang
- 6 to 7 black peppercorns kalimirch
For The Garnish
- 1 tbsp finely chopped coriander dhania
Instructions
For the dry spice powder
-
Combine the cumin seeds, coriander seeds, cloves and peppercorns in a broad non-stick pan and sauté on a medium flame for a few seconds.
-
Remove from the flame and blend in a mixer to a smooth powder. Keep aside.
How to proceed
-
Heat the oil in a pressure cooker and add the cumin seeds.
-
When the seeds crackle, add the onions and asafoetida and sauté on a medium flame for 1 to 2 minutes.
-
Add the ginger, green chillies, rice, tendli and green peas, mix well and sauté on a medium flame for 1 to 2 minutes
-
Add 2½ cups of hot water, salt, turmeric powder and dry spice powder, mix well and pressure cook for 3 whistles.
-
Allow the steam to escape before opening the lid.
Tips:
- Vegetable Variations: You can add other vegetables like beans, cauliflower, bell peppers, or green beans depending on availability and preference.
- Peanuts: Roasting peanuts separately and adding them to the dish gives a wonderful crunch. You can also add roasted cashews or almonds for variation.
- Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the spice levels by adding more or less chili powder or using green chilies instead of red chili powder for a fresher taste.
- Cooking Method: If you don’t have a pressure cooker, you can cook this dish in a regular pot by following the same process; just make sure to cover it tightly and simmer on low heat.
- Serving Ideas: Masala Bhaat pairs well with a cooling raita (such as cucumber or boondi raita) to balance the spices and make it even more satisfying.
Masala Bhaat is a flavorful rice dish with the perfect blend of spices and vegetables. It’s easy to prepare and makes a wholesome, comforting meal for any day of the week. Enjoy!