Andhra Style Veg Pulao Recipe That’s Easy and Delicious

Andhra-style veg pulao is a vibrant and aromatic one-pot rice dish that beautifully captures the essence of Andhra Pradesh’s rich culinary heritage. Known for its bold flavors and colorful presentation, this vegetable pulao combines fragrant basmati rice with an array of fresh vegetables and traditional spices.

Perfect as a wholesome meal on its own or paired with a cooling raita or pickle, this recipe is both nutritious and incredibly satisfying.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner looking to explore South Indian flavors, this Andhra-style veg pulao recipe offers a simple yet authentic approach. It’s ideal for festive occasions, family gatherings, or even a quick weeknight dinner.

The balance of spices and vegetables makes it a dish loved by all ages, and the method ensures fluffy, perfectly cooked rice every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Andhra-style veg pulao recipe is a celebration of taste and texture. The use of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaves infuses the rice with a mouthwatering fragrance.

Unlike heavy or greasy rice dishes, this pulao is light yet filling, making it a great option for any meal of the day.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap or add vegetables based on your preference or seasonality.

Plus, the step-by-step instructions are straightforward, so even beginners can master this dish without any hassle.

Lastly, it’s a wholesome vegetarian option packed with fiber, vitamins, and essential nutrients, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious eaters.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 bay leaves
• 4-5 cloves
• 2 green cardamoms
• 1 small cinnamon stick
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1-2 green chilies, slit (adjust to taste)
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• ½ cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• ½ cup beans, chopped
• ½ cup chopped cauliflower
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
• 1 large tomato, chopped
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 2 cups water
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped for garnish
• Juice of ½ lemon (optional)

Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed pan or pressure cooker
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fine mesh strainer (for rinsing rice)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Bowl for soaking rice

Instructions

1. Rinse and soak the rice: Thoroughly rinse the basmati rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. Soak it in fresh water for 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the spices and vegetables: While the rice soaks, chop all the vegetables and keep your whole spices ready.
3. Heat the oil: In a heavy-bottomed pan or pressure cooker, heat the oil or ghee over medium heat.
4. Add the whole spices: Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds, bay leaves, cloves, cardamoms, and cinnamon. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Sauté onions and aromatics: Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. Then add the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies. Cook for 2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
6. Add vegetables: Toss in the diced carrots, potatoes, beans, cauliflower, and peas. Stir well and cook for 4-5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
7. Spice it up: Add chopped tomatoes, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix thoroughly and cook until the tomatoes are soft and the spices are well incorporated, about 3-4 minutes.
8. Add rice and water: Add the drained rice to the pan and gently mix to coat the rice with the vegetable-spice mixture. Pour in 2 cups of water and check the salt. Stir once and bring it to a boil.
9. Cook the pulao: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and water is absorbed. Avoid opening the lid frequently. If using a pressure cooker, cook on low flame for 2 whistles and then let the pressure release naturally.
10. Finish and garnish: Once cooked, turn off the heat. Fluff the pulao gently with a fork. Add lemon juice if using and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
11. Serve hot: Serve your Andhra-style veg pulao with a side of yogurt, pickle, or any curry of your choice.

Tips & Variations

For fluffier rice, soak the basmati rice longer, up to 45 minutes. This helps in even cooking and prevents rice from sticking together.

You can customize the vegetables based on availability. Bell peppers, corn, or sweet potatoes can be delightful additions.

For a richer flavor, replace oil with ghee, which adds a nutty aroma characteristic of Andhra cuisine.

If you prefer a spicier pulao, increase the number of green chilies or add a pinch of black pepper powder. For a milder version, omit the red chili powder and green chilies entirely.

To add protein, toss in cooked chickpeas or paneer cubes during the vegetable sauté step.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Andhra-style veg pulao pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. A cool cucumber raita or plain yogurt complements the spices and adds a refreshing contrast.

For an authentic experience, serve it with a spicy Andhra-style pickle or a simple onion-tomato chutney.

You can also enjoy this pulao with a vegetable kurma, dal tadka, or any curry of your choice for a more filling meal. For a lighter option, pair it with a fresh salad or steamed papadums.

Looking to try more delicious recipes? Check out our Breakfast Wellington Recipe, Braised Pork Ribs With Radish Recipe, or Bluebill Duck Recipes for more inspiration!

Conclusion

Andhra-style veg pulao is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of South India right to your dining table. Its perfect balance of spices and fresh vegetables creates a dish that is both flavorful and nutritious.

Whether you’re cooking for a festive occasion or a simple family meal, this pulao is sure to impress with its aroma, taste, and wholesome goodness.

With its easy-to-follow steps and adaptable ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels. Enjoy the process of making this traditional dish and savor every bite of the delicious Andhra veg pulao.

Happy cooking!

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