Chinese Veg Pulao Recipe Easy and Flavorful Meal Idea

Updated On: October 8, 2025

Chinese veg pulao is a delightful fusion dish that marries the fragrant, spiced rice of traditional Indian pulao with the vibrant flavors and crisp textures of Chinese-style stir-fried vegetables. This recipe is perfect for those days when you crave something quick, wholesome, and bursting with a medley of tastes and colors.

The colorful veggies combined with aromatic rice and a subtle hint of soy sauce create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this Chinese veg pulao recipe is easy to prepare and sure to impress your family or guests.

What makes this pulao truly special is its versatility and balanced nutrition. It’s a one-pot wonder that can serve as a hearty main meal or a side dish.

Plus, it’s completely vegetarian, making it suitable for many dietary preferences. If you enjoy recipes that combine simplicity with bold flavors, you’re going to love this Chinese veg pulao recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chinese veg pulao is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, colorful meal packed with vegetables and fragrant rice. The recipe is quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners.

The blend of Indian spices with Chinese seasoning like soy sauce offers a unique, mouthwatering flavor profile that’s both comforting and exotic. It’s also highly customizable – you can add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.

Best of all, it’s a balanced dish that provides carbs, fiber, and plenty of vitamins from the fresh vegetables. If you’re looking for a nutritious, tasty, and easy-to-make meal, this recipe ticks all the boxes!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed and soaked for 20 minutes
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or sesame oil preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, beans, corn, peas)
  • 2 green chilies, slit (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon chili sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2-3 spring onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed pan or wok
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Fine mesh strainer (for rinsing rice)
  • Serving bowl or plate

Instructions

  1. Prepare the rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for 20 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  2. Heat oil and temper spices: In a heavy-bottomed pan or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant.
  3. Sauté onions and aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Then add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
  4. Add vegetables: Toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they slightly soften but remain crunchy. This keeps the texture lively.
  5. Spice it up: Add soy sauce, chili sauce, black pepper powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well to coat the vegetables evenly with the sauces and spices.
  6. Add rice and water: Gently add the drained rice to the pan and stir carefully to combine with the vegetables without breaking the grains. Pour 2 cups of water and stir once.
  7. Cook the pulao: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and water is absorbed.
  8. Rest and fluff: Turn off the heat and let the pulao rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Then gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
  9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped spring onions and fresh coriander leaves on top before serving for a fresh finish.

Tips & Variations

Use soaked rice to ensure fluffy, non-sticky grains.

Feel free to add tofu or paneer cubes for extra protein.

Adjust the soy and chili sauce quantities based on your preferred spice and salt levels.

Try adding a dash of vinegar or lemon juice at the end for a tangy twist.

For a nutty crunch, toss in some roasted cashews or peanuts just before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 320 kcal
Carbohydrates 60 g
Protein 7 g
Fat 5 g
Fiber 5 g
Sodium 500 mg
Vitamin A 30% DV
Vitamin C 40% DV

Serving Suggestions

This Chinese veg pulao pairs wonderfully with a side of crunchy vegetable salad or a bowl of hot Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a wholesome meal. A simple cucumber raita or a tangy soy and chili dipping sauce can also complement the flavors nicely.

If you want to add some protein, serve this pulao alongside a light Pcos Chicken Recipes variation or a bowl of spiced lentil soup. For a quick dessert after this meal, try the luscious Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe.

Conclusion

Chinese veg pulao is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for those who love a mix of Indian and Chinese culinary styles. It’s easy to prepare, nutritious, and endlessly adaptable to whatever vegetables you have on hand.

The aromatic basmati rice combined with crisp veggies and a savory soy sauce twist makes it a crowd-pleaser for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

This recipe is ideal for quick lunches, weeknight dinners, or even potlucks, as it holds its texture and flavor well when reheated. Next time you’re looking for a fresh take on traditional pulao, give this Chinese veg pulao a try – it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!

📖 Recipe Card: Chinese Veg Pulao

Description: A flavorful fusion of Chinese spices and Indian pulao, loaded with colorful vegetables. Quick and easy to make, perfect for a wholesome meal.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup carrots, diced
  • 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
  • 1/2 cup green peas
  • 1/2 cup cabbage, shredded
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder
  • 2 cups water
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons spring onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the basmati rice and soak for 15 minutes.
  2. Heat oil in a pan and sauté ginger-garlic paste until fragrant.
  3. Add onions and green chilies, cook until onions turn translucent.
  4. Add carrots, bell peppers, peas, and cabbage; stir fry for 3-4 minutes.
  5. Drain the rice and add it to the pan; mix gently with vegetables.
  6. Add soy sauce, black pepper, salt, and water; bring to a boil.
  7. Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes or until rice is cooked.
  8. Turn off heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.
  9. Garnish with chopped spring onions and serve hot.

Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 45 g

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Marta K

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