By Rajlakshmi
January 19, 2026
An exotic spiced rice dish made in Hyderabad and Telangana is known as bagara khana or bagara annam. Bagara rice is also a well-liked delicacy at celebrations and weddings. It is a staple main dish for vegetarians in Telangana.
1 cup basmati rice Ghee, as needed 1 cinnamon stick 2 cardamom pods 4 cloves 1 onion, thinly sliced 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste 2 tomatoes, chopped ½ tsp turmeric powder ½ tsp red chilli powder 2 cups of water Salt, as needed Fried onions, for garnish Freshly chopped coriander leaves, for garnish
Wash and soak rice for 30 minutes. Drain water and set aside.
Heat the ghee in a pan and add whole spices, such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.
Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. Add ginger-garlic paste. Cook for a minute. Add tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and salt.
Cook until the tomatoes are soft. Add soaked rice and mix well. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Cover and cook.
Garnish with fried onions and chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot with raita or curry.
Bagara rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.