Apologies for the repetition in the previous response. Here’s another simple recipe to make Vegetable Pulao:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, corn, potatoes, etc.), chopped
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2-3 green chilies, slit (adjust according to your spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
- Whole spices: 1 bay leaf, 2-3 cloves, 2-3 green cardamom pods, 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups water
- Fresh cilantro (coriander) leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Rinse the basmati rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Heat ghee or vegetable oil in a pot or a deep pan over medium heat.
- Add the whole spices (bay leaf, cloves, cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick) and cumin seeds. Let them sizzle for a few seconds until they release their aroma.
- Add the sliced onions and sauté until they become translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chilies. Sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
- Add the mixed vegetables to the pot and sauté them for 2-3 minutes.
- Add turmeric powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, and salt. Mix well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
- Add the soaked and drained basmati rice to the pot. Stir gently to combine the rice with the vegetables and spices.
- Pour in 2 cups of water and bring it to a boil.
- Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let the pulao cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
- Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and let the pulao sit covered for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Fluff the pulao with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Your Vegetable Pulao is now ready to be served! It makes a delicious and wholesome meal on its own or can be served with yogurt, raita, or any curry of your choice. Enjoy!