Pudina Rice Recipe | Mint Rice South Indian Style

Learn how to make flavorful South Indian Pudina Rice (Mint Rice) — a quick, aromatic, and healthy lunch box recipe made with fresh mint leaves, spices, and cooked rice.

Pudina Rice — also known as Mint Rice — is a fragrant and refreshing South Indian recipe that combines the earthy aroma of mint leaves with spices and cooked rice. It’s a popular dish in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, often enjoyed for lunch or as a travel meal.

This one-pot vegetarian recipe is not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants and digestive benefits from fresh mint. Perfect for lunch boxes, fasting days, or quick dinners!

🥘 Ingredients for Pudina Rice

For the Pudina Masala Paste

• 1 cup fresh mint leaves (pudina)

• ½ cup coriander leaves

• 2–3 green chilies

• 1-inch ginger

• 4–5 garlic cloves

• 2 tbsp grated coconut (optional)

• 2 tbsp water (to grind)

For the Rice

• 2 cups cooked basmati rice (cooled)

• 2 tbsp oil or ghee

• 1 tsp mustard seeds

• 1 tsp cumin seeds

• 8–10 curry leaves

• 1 medium onion, finely sliced

• 1 green chili, slit

• Salt to taste

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

🔪 How to Make Pudina Rice (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Pudina Masala

1. Rinse mint and coriander leaves well.

2. Add mint, coriander, green chilies, ginger, garlic, and coconut to a mixer.

3. Grind into a smooth paste using minimal water.

Step 2: Sauté the Base

1. Heat oil or ghee in a pan.

2. Add mustard seeds and let them crackle.

3. Add cumin seeds and curry leaves.

4. Add sliced onions and green chili; sauté until translucent.

Step 3: Cook the Masala

1. Add the ground mint paste to the pan.

2. Cook for 5–6 minutes until the raw aroma disappears.

3. Add salt and mix well.

Step 4: Add Rice and Finish

1. Add the cooked rice to the pan and gently mix.

2. Sprinkle lemon juice for freshness.

3. Serve hot with papad or curd.

🍃 Quick Facts

🍛 Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve Pudina Rice with curd, raita, or vegetable kurma.
• Pairs beautifully with potato fry, papad, or pickle.
• Ideal for lunch boxes, train journeys, or festivals.

🧊 Storage Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight box in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheat gently with a few drops of ghee to restore aroma.
• Avoid freezing as mint flavor dulls on thawing.

💚 Health Benefits of Pudina Rice

• Aids digestion – Mint helps soothe the stomach.
• Rich in antioxidants – Protects cells from oxidative stress.
• Low in fat – Uses minimal oil yet delivers big flavor.
• Cooling effect – Perfect for hot Indian summers.

🧂 Pro Tips for Perfect Mint Rice

• Use fresh mint leaves for best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the mint paste — it can turn bitter.
• Use leftover rice that’s cooled for fluffy grains.
• Add a handful of roasted peanuts or cashews for crunch.

🔗 Useful Links

• Coconut Rice Recipe

• Curd Rice Recipe

• Lemon Rice Recipe

❓ FAQs on Pudina Rice Recipe

1. Can I make Pudina Rice without coconut?
Yes, you can skip coconut. The mint and coriander provide enough flavor on their own.

2. What type of rice works best for Pudina Rice?
Long-grain basmati or sona masoori rice are ideal as they stay fluffy.

3. Can I add vegetables to Pudina Rice?
Absolutely! Add peas, carrots, or beans to make it more nutritious.

4. How can I reduce the spice level?
Reduce green chilies or add a spoon of yogurt while serving.

5. Is Pudina Rice good for digestion?
Yes, mint and ginger make this rice great for digestion and cooling the body.

This Pudina Rice Recipe is a flavorful, healthy, and quick meal option for busy days. Packed with the aroma of fresh mint, it’s a perfect South Indian comfort food. Try it once, and it might just become your weekly favorite!