Cooking Recipes Veg Pulao: Easy and Flavorful Ideas

Veg Pulao is a fragrant, colorful, and wholesome one-pot rice dish that brings together an array of vegetables, aromatic spices, and fluffy basmati rice. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping a flavorful meal for guests, veg pulao is a versatile and satisfying choice that never fails to impress.

The blend of spices like cumin, bay leaves, and cloves, combined with fresh vegetables, gives this dish a delightful aroma and taste that is both comforting and exotic.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to create a nutritious vegetarian meal without complicated steps. It’s an excellent way to sneak more veggies into your diet while enjoying a hearty, flavorful dish.

Plus, it’s easy to customize according to your taste preferences and what you have on hand in your pantry. If you love simple yet delicious vegetarian recipes, this veg pulao will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Veg pulao is a crowd-pleaser for its simplicity and depth of flavor. The dish cooks quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

You get a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients from the vegetables and rice, making it a wholesome meal on its own.

Moreover, this pulao is fragrant and colorful, brightened by vibrant peas, carrots, and bell peppers. The spices lend warmth without overwhelming the palate, appealing to both beginners and seasoned cooks.

If you enjoy dishes like Asian Vegetarian Main Course Recipes for Every Meal, you’ll find this pulao a welcoming addition to your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed and soaked for 20 minutes
• 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or mustard oil recommended)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 bay leaves
• 4-5 whole cloves
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 green chili, slit (optional for spice)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, green beans, bell peppers)
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 2 cups water
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed pot or deep pan with lid
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander or sieve for rinsing rice
• Knife and chopping board

Instructions

1. Prepare the rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak it in enough water for 20 minutes, then drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil and temper spices: In your pot, heat the oil on medium flame. Add cumin seeds, bay leaves, cloves, and cinnamon stick. Let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until aromatic.
3. Sauté onions and aromatics: Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. Then add ginger-garlic paste and green chili, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add vegetables and spices: Toss in the mixed vegetables and chopped tomato. Sprinkle turmeric, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften slightly.
5. Combine rice and water: Add the drained rice to the pot. Stir gently to coat the rice with the spices and vegetables. Pour in 2 cups of water and add garam masala. Mix carefully.
6. Cook the pulao: Bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat to a simmer and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy and water is absorbed.
7. Let it rest: Turn off the heat and let the pulao rest for 5-10 minutes undisturbed. This helps the flavors to meld and the rice to fully steam.
8. Fluff and garnish: Use a fork to gently fluff the rice. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves before serving.

Tips & Variations

Rinsing the rice thoroughly is key to fluffy pulao, as it removes surface starch that can make the rice sticky.

You can customize veg pulao with your favorite vegetables. Try adding mushrooms, corn, or even paneer cubes for added protein.

For a nuttier flavor, toss in some cashews or toasted almonds just before serving.

For a vegan twist with extra spice, consider using the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend to enhance the heat. If you want a richer pulao, cooking it in vegetable broth instead of water adds depth.

Looking to explore more vegetarian rice dishes? Check out these delicious recipes:

• Asian Vegetarian Main Course Recipes for Every Meal
• Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals
• Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Veg pulao pairs wonderfully with cooling sides like raita or a fresh cucumber salad. You can also serve it alongside spicy curries or dal for a complete meal.

For a festive touch, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of fried onions on top.

To keep your meal balanced, try pairing this pulao with a simple Vegan Salad Dressing Recipe for Fresh and Flavorful Meals or a hearty lentil soup like the Best Lentil Soup Recipe Vegan Bodybuilding Fuel.

Conclusion

Veg pulao is a delightful fusion of fragrant rice, wholesome vegetables, and warm spices, making it an ideal dish for everyday meals or special occasions. Its simplicity in preparation, combined with rich flavors, ensures it will be enjoyed by vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is a reliable way to create a nourishing and delicious meal.

By experimenting with different vegetables and spices, you can keep this pulao fresh and exciting every time you make it. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring more plant-based meals into your diet while enjoying authentic flavors.

Don’t forget to explore other vegetarian recipes to complement your meals and expand your culinary horizons!

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