Craving a comforting and flavorful rice dish with a unique twist? Look no further than Degi-style Chinese rice! This recipe offers a delightful departure from traditional methods, resulting in perfectly cooked, fluffy rice imbued with a subtle, savory depth. Forget bland, overcooked grains; this approach ensures each kernel is tender and separate, creating a delightful textural experience that complements any Chinese dish. The secret lies in a specific cooking technique that unlocks the rice's full potential, leaving you with a side that's as delicious as it is simple to prepare.
Prepare to be amazed by how easy it is to achieve restaurant-quality results at home. This recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike, offering a quick and accessible path to culinary excellence. Ready to elevate your Chinese cooking game? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide to mastering the art of Degi-style Chinese rice!
Tools Needed
- Large Pan
- Degi (Large Pot)
Ingredients
- Chicken: 3 kg
- Water: 3-4 liters
- Salt: 9 tablespoons
- Eggs: 1 dozen
- Ghee: 2 kg
- Crushed Chili Powder: 5 tablespoons
- Janice Salt: 3 tablespoons
- White Pepper Powder: 5 tablespoons
- Black Pepper Powder: 1/2 tablespoon
- Biryani Masala: 1 packet
- White Cumin Seeds: 1/2 tablespoon
- Mixed Vegetables: 10-12
- Capsicum: 1/2 kg
- Peas: 3 kg
- Potatoes: 3 kg
- Carrots: 1 kg
- Soy Sauce: 1 glass
- Chili Sauce: 1 glass
- White Vinegar: 1 small glass
- Rice: 10 kg
- Mint: 1 bunch
- Cabbage: 1 kg
- Pineapple
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients and Flavor Base
- Boil chicken with water and salt for 15-20 minutes.
- Fry eggs in ghee until cooked.
- In a large pan, mix dry spices (chili powder, salt, Janice salt, white pepper, black pepper, biryani masala, cumin seeds).
- Add vegetable paste, capsicum, boiled chicken, peas, potatoes, carrots, soy sauce, chili sauce, and vinegar.




Step 2. Combine and Simmer the Chicken and Vegetables
- Add the chicken broth (yakhni) reserved from boiling the chicken.
- Add water for rice.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then add washed rice.
- Add mint and cabbage.




Step 3. Cook the Rice
- Cook on high heat for 1 minute, then low heat for 10 minutes. Finally, add pineapple.

Step 4. Final Touches and Serving
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes, then serve.

Read more: Crispy Salt & Pepper Shrimp: A Simple Chinese Prawn Recipe
Tips
- Don't waste the water used to boil the chicken; it adds flavor to the rice.
- The yakhni (chicken broth) enhances the rice's flavor.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 18000-20000
- Fat: approximately 1000-1200 g
- Carbs: approximately 1800-2000 g
- Protein: approximately 600-700 g
FAQs
1. What is 'Degi Style' cooking?
Degi style refers to a specific cooking technique, often involving a particular ratio of water to rice and a specific cooking method (often involving a pressure cooker or a special pot) that results in exceptionally fluffy and flavorful rice. It's not a standardized term, but rather a descriptive one for a method aiming for perfectly cooked rice.
2. Can I use any type of rice for Degi-style cooking?
While many types of rice can be adapted, medium-grain rice, such as jasmine rice or short-grain rice, works best for Degi-style cooking. These rice types achieve the perfect texture and fluffiness most associated with the style.
Mastering Degi-style Chinese rice is easier than you think, adding a touch of restaurant-quality flair to your home cooking. With a few simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can consistently enjoy perfectly cooked, flavorful rice that elevates any Chinese meal. Now go forth and enjoy your delicious, perfectly cooked rice!