Pulao Recipe Veg: Easy and Flavorful Step-by-Step Guide

Looking for a delicious, aromatic, and wholesome rice dish that’s perfect for any meal? This vegetable pulao recipe is just what you need!

Pulao, a fragrant Indian rice dish, is a celebration of spices, vegetables, and perfectly cooked basmati rice. It’s a one-pot wonder that combines simple ingredients into a flavorful and colorful meal.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables.

Vegetable pulao is ideal for busy weeknights, festive gatherings, or even a comforting lunchbox treat. It pairs beautifully with raita, salad, or a simple dal.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in a variety of veggies, making it both nutritious and satisfying. Dive into this delightful pulao recipe that will fill your kitchen with enticing aromas and your plate with vibrant colors.

Ready to explore the magic of this classic Indian dish? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetable pulao recipe stands out for its simplicity and rich flavors. The blend of spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon infuses the rice with a warm, inviting aroma.

The medley of vegetables adds texture, color, and nutrition, making it a wholesome meal in itself.

One of the best things about this pulao is how easily it can be adapted. You can use whatever fresh or frozen veggies you have on hand, making it a great way to reduce food waste.

It’s also a one-pot dish, which means minimal cleanup and maximum convenience. Whether you want a light meal or a hearty side dish, this pulao fits the bill perfectly.

For those who love experimenting with Indian cuisine, this dish offers a fantastic base to try different spice combinations or add protein like paneer or tofu. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and exotic, bringing a taste of home-cooked Indian food to your table.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 green cardamom pods
• 4 cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick (2-inch)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, potatoes, bell peppers)
• 2 cups water
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped for garnish
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 green chili, slit (optional)

Equipment

• Medium-sized heavy-bottomed pot with lid or pressure cooker
• Frying pan (optional, if you prefer to sauté veggies separately)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Strainer or colander for rinsing rice
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and chopping board

Instructions

1. Prepare the rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water several times until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for at least 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil: In a heavy-bottomed pot or pressure cooker, heat the vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add onions and ginger-garlic paste: Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
4. Cook the tomatoes and spices: Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, and salt to taste. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the oil begins to separate from the masala, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the vegetables: Mix in your choice of vegetables along with the green chili if using. Sauté for 3-4 minutes so the vegetables start to soften.
6. Add the rice: Gently fold in the soaked and drained rice. Stir carefully to coat the rice with the spices and vegetables without breaking the grains.
7. Add water and cook: Pour in 2 cups of water and sprinkle the garam masala. Stir gently, check seasoning, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and water is absorbed.
8. Rest the pulao: Turn off the heat and let the pulao rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the rice to firm up.
9. Fluff and garnish: Use a fork to fluff the rice gently. Garnish with fresh chopped coriander leaves before serving.

Tips & Variations

Tip: For extra flavor, you can lightly toast the rice before cooking. Also, soaking the rice helps achieve fluffy grains that don’t stick together.

• Use cashews or raisins sautéed in ghee for a richer pulao.
• Try adding paneer cubes or tofu for a protein boost.
• Substitute vegetables based on seasonality; zucchini, corn, or mushrooms work great.
• For a spicier version, increase the amount of green chili or add a pinch of red chili powder.
• If using a pressure cooker, cook on low flame for 2 whistles and then let the pressure release naturally.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegetable pulao is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside a cool cucumber raita or a tangy yogurt dip to balance the spices.

For a heartier meal, accompany it with dal (lentil curry) or a creamy vegetable korma.

If you prefer a light accompaniment, a fresh salad with lemon and chaat masala complements the warm flavors beautifully. This pulao also makes a great filling for wraps or burritos, paired with some chutney or pickles for added zest.

For more delicious vegetable-based recipes to accompany your pulao, check out these favorites:

• Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals
• Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners
• Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas

Conclusion

Vegetable pulao is a timeless dish beloved across many Indian households for its fragrant aroma, vibrant colors, and comforting taste. This recipe proves that with just a handful of spices and fresh vegetables, you can create a dish that’s both nourishing and delightful.

It’s perfect for daily meals, special occasions, or whenever you crave something wholesome yet exciting.

Cooking pulao is a wonderful way to bring family and friends together around the table, sharing a meal that’s both simple and sophisticated. Plus, it’s a flexible recipe that invites creativity and adaptation, whether you’re adding different vegetables or experimenting with spices.

Give this vegetable pulao recipe a try today, and enjoy the beautiful blend of flavors that make Indian cuisine so special.

For more inspiring plant-based meals, don’t miss our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious and Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.

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