Delicious and Easy-to-Make Veg Pulav Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Basmati Rice
  • 2 cups Water
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil
  • 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
  • 1 medium Carrot, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup Green Peas
  • 2 Green Chillies, slit
  • 1 tablespoon Ginger-Garlic Paste
  • 1/2 cup Chopped Mint Leaves
  • 1/2 cup Chopped Coriander Leaves
  • 1 Bay Leaf
  • 4 Cloves
  • 2 Cardamom Pods
  • 1 inch Cinnamon Stick
  • 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
  • Salt to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. Rinse the Basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for about 30 minutes, then drain.
  2. While the rice is soaking, heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  3. Add the bay leaf, cloves, cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick to the pan and fry for a minute or two until they start to release their aromas.
  4. Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté until it starts to become translucent.
  5. Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chillies to the pan and continue to sauté for another minute.
  6. Add the chopped carrot and green peas to the pan. Stir well and cook for a couple of minutes.
  7. Add the turmeric powder and salt to the pan. Mix until all the vegetables are coated.
  8. Add the soaked and drained Basmati rice to the pan. Stir gently to combine with the other ingredients, being careful not to break the rice grains.
  9. Add the water to the pan and increase the heat to high. Once the water starts to boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and all the water is absorbed.
  10. Once the rice is cooked, add the chopped mint and coriander leaves. Gently fluff the rice with a fork to mix in the herbs and to prevent the grains from sticking together.
  11. Turn off the heat and let the pulav sit for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

  • Pan - A large pan for cooking the pulav
  • Fork - To fluff the cooked rice and mix in the herbs
  • Knife - For chopping the onion, carrot, and other ingredients
  • Measuring Cup - To measure the basmati rice and water accurately
  • Spatula - For sautéing the vegetables and stirring the rice
  • Cutting Board - To chop the vegetables
  • Bowl - For soaking the Basmati rice
  • Strainer - To drain the soaked rice
  • Stove - To cook the pulav

Recipe variations

  • Use different vegetables such as bell peppers, cauliflower, or broccoli instead of carrots and peas.
  • Add cooked chickpeas or tofu for a protein boost.
  • Include dried fruits like raisins or chopped apricots for a touch of sweetness.
  • Experiment with different spices like cumin, coriander, or garam masala to add more flavor.
  • Replace the Basmati rice with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist.
  • Add a handful of cashews or almonds for a crunchy texture.
  • For a richer taste, substitute vegetable oil with ghee (clarified butter).
  • Include grated coconut or coconut milk to give the pulav a tropical twist.
  • For a spicier version, increase the number of green chillies or add red chilli powder.
  • Try adding a teaspoon of lemon juice or a pinch of saffron strands for a refreshing and aromatic twist.

Recipe overview

Welcome to this delicious Veg Pulav recipe. This simple yet flavorful dish is a staple in many Indian households and is often served as a main course. It's a nutritious and satisfying meal that combines fragrant Basmati rice with a variety of hearty vegetables and aromatic spices. This Veg Pulav recipe is perfect for those who enjoy flavorful and hearty vegetarian meals. In this recipe, you can expect a step-by-step guide to preparing Veg Pulav from scratch, starting with the careful preparation and cooking of the Basmati rice and ending with the addition of fresh herbs for an added layer of flavor. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or as a special meal for guests. Remember, the key to a great Veg Pulav is the use of fresh ingredients and careful cooking. Soak the rice, sauté the vegetables and spices, and allow the dish to simmer until all flavors meld together. It's a labor of love that will yield an aromatic and tasty dish that's sure to impress. Enjoy cooking!

Common questions

  1. Can I use any type of rice for this recipe? No, it is recommended to use Basmati rice for the best results in terms of texture and flavor.
  2. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones? Yes, you can use frozen vegetables if you don't have fresh ones available. Just make sure to thaw them before adding to the recipe.
  3. Can I omit any spices if I don't have them? While it may alter the flavor slightly, you can omit the spices like cloves, cardamom pods, or cinnamon stick if you don't have them on hand. However, they do add a nice aroma and taste to the dish.
  4. Can I add other vegetables to the pulav? Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, cauliflower, or beans to the recipe to customize it to your liking.
  5. Can I make this recipe in a rice cooker? Yes, you can use a rice cooker to make Veg Pulav. Just follow the same steps until adding the rice and water to the pan, then transfer everything to the rice cooker and cook according to the cooker's instructions.
  6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make the pulav ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Just ensure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  7. Is this recipe suitable for vegans? Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegans as long as you ensure the vegetable oil you use is vegan-friendly.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large Pan - A large pan with a lid to cook the pulav.
  • Fork - To fluff the cooked rice and mix in the herbs.
  • Measuring Cups - To measure the rice, water, and oil accurately.
  • Chopping Board - For chopping the onion, carrot, and herbs.
  • Knife - To chop the vegetables and herbs.
  • Spatula or Wooden Spoon - To stir and mix the ingredients in the pan.
  • Colander - To rinse and drain the Basmati rice.
  • Bowls - For soaking the Basmati rice and serving the pulav.

Origin stories

Veg Pulav, a delightful dish filled with flavours and aromas, has its roots embedded in the Indian subcontinent. Its name is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Pulaka', meaning 'a ball of rice'. This humble dish, endowed with a variety of vegetables and fragrant spices, bears a testimony to the region's love for rice and its versatility in creating a plethora of exquisite recipes. Each grain of rice in a Pulav is separate and infused with a burst of flavours, courtesy of the rich and aromatic spices used in its preparation. This dish showcases the perfect harmony between rice and vegetables, something that is central to the vegetarian ethos prevalent in many parts of India. Interestingly, every region in India has its own version of Pulav, making it a symbolic culinary representation of India's diversity.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.