🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Basmati rice
- 2 cups Mixed vegetables(e.g., carrots, peas, beans, potatoes, cauliflower, chopped)
- 3 tbsp Ghee or oil
- 1 medium Onion(thinly sliced)
- 1 tbsp Ginger-garlic paste
- 2-3 Green chilies(slit)
- 2 Bay leaves
- 3-4 Cardamom pods
- 4-5 Cloves
- 1 inch Cinnamon stick
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Cumin powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp Garam masala
- to taste Salt
- 3.5 cups Water or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp Fresh coriander(chopped, for garnish)
- 2 tbsp Cashews or raisins(optional, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for 20-30 minutes. Drain well.
- 2
Heat ghee or oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or pressure cooker over medium heat. Add bay leaves, cardamom pods, cloves, and cinnamon stick. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 3
Add sliced onion and sauté until golden brown. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and cook for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
- 4
Add the mixed vegetables and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are slightly tender.
- 5
Add turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Stir well to coat the vegetables.
- 6
Add the drained basmati rice to the pot and gently mix it with the vegetables and spices. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring carefully to avoid breaking the rice grains.
- 7
Pour in the water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. If using a pressure cooker, cook for 1-2 whistles.
- 8
Let the pulao rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with fresh coriander and optional cashews or raisins.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Soaking the rice helps it cook evenly and results in fluffy grains.
- ✓Do not overcook the vegetables before adding the rice.
- ✓Adjust the amount of spices and chilies according to your preference.
🔄 Variations
- Add paneer cubes or tofu for added protein.
- Incorporate dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for a touch of sweetness.