Today, I’m excited to share a delicious recipe for Pulao, a classic Indian rice pilaf that’s bursting with flavor. This dish is not only easy to make but also perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a casual dinner at home. Let’s dive into the world of this aromatic rice dish!
Pulao Recipe (Indian Rice Pilaf)
This Pulao recipe combines fragrant basmati rice with a variety of spices and vegetables, making it a versatile dish that you can customize to your liking. Here’s how to prepare it.
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 medium tomato, chopped
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and green beans)
- 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 2-3 cloves
- 1-2 cardamom pods
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Start by rinsing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and keeps the rice fluffy.
- In a large pot, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the cumin seeds, cloves, cardamom pods, and bay leaf. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- Add the sliced onions and cook until they are golden brown. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish.
- Next, toss in the chopped tomatoes and mixed vegetables. Stir well and let them cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the rinsed basmati rice to the pot and gently stir to coat the grains with the spices and vegetables.
- Pour in the water or vegetable broth and season with salt. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and all the liquid has been absorbed.
- Remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve hot with your favorite raita or curry. Enjoy your homemade Pulao!
This Pulao recipe is a great way to explore Indian cuisine and share wonderful flavors with your loved ones. Feel free to adjust the spices and vegetables based on what you have at home. Happy cooking!