Ramadan, a time of spiritual reflection and togetherness, is often filled with the fragrant aromas of delicious home-cooked meals. This year, elevate your Iftar spread with our quick and tasty Aromatic Veg Pulao recipe. This vibrant dish is not only bursting with flavour from a medley of aromatic spices and fresh vegetables but is also incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy evenings during the holy month. Imagine the comforting warmth of fluffy rice infused with the rich scent of cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, complemented by the sweetness of vegetables like carrots and peas.
This simple yet elegant recipe is ideal for both experienced cooks and beginners alike. The perfect balance of spices and vegetables creates a satisfying and healthy dish that will delight your family and friends. Ready to bring the enticing aroma of this delightful pulao into your kitchen? Let's delve into the step-by-step process and create a culinary masterpiece together.
Tools Needed
- Large pan or bhagod
Ingredients
- Sona Mussoorie rice (or Basmati rice): 750 grams
- Oil: 1 cup
- Ghee: Optional, can replace half the oil
- Onion: 1 big, thinly sliced
- Whole garam masala
- Shajeera (cumin seeds): 1 teaspoon
- Cloves: 4-5
- Cardamom
- Cinnamon sticks: 2-3
- Bay leaves: 2
- Green chilies: 3, slit
- Ginger-garlic paste: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Turmeric powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Red chili powder: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Coriander powder: 1 teaspoon
- Garam masala: 1 teaspoon
- Tomatoes: 3 large, chopped
- Carrots: 1 cup, chopped
- Potatoes: 2 large, cut into 6 pieces
- Peas: 1 cup
- Capsicum (bell pepper): 1, chopped
- Mint leaves: A handful, chopped
- Coriander leaves: A handful, chopped
- Water: Double the amount of rice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
- Heat oil (or oil and ghee) in a pan. Fry the sliced onions until golden brown (about 5 minutes).
- Add whole garam masala, shajeera, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon sticks, bay leaves, and green chilies. Fry well for a few seconds.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and fry until the raw smell disappears.
- Add salt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Fry well until the spices are fragrant.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and fry until the oil separates.
- Add carrots, potatoes, and peas. Fry for 10-15 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add capsicum and fry for a few minutes. Stir in mint and coriander leaves.
Step 2. Prepare the Rice
- Soak the rice for half an hour.
- Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pan. Mix gently.
Step 3. Simmer and Cook the Pulao
- Add water, cover, and cook on medium flame for 10 minutes.
- Add double the amount of water as the rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed. Check and adjust salt if needed.
Step 4. Rest and Serve
- Gently fluff the rice and vegetables. Cover and cook on low flame (dum) for 10-15 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot.
Read more: Spicy Tava Pulao Recipe: Easy Indian Rice Dish
Tips
- Soaking the rice reduces cooking time and makes it fluffy.
- Add capsicum towards the end to prevent overcooking.
- Adjust the amount of chili and salt according to your taste.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, absolutely! Frozen mixed vegetables work perfectly well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the pot.
2. What if I don't have all the spices listed?
Don't worry! You can adjust the spices to your liking. The most important ones are the cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, but feel free to omit or substitute others based on your preference and availability.
3. How can I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is already naturally vegan! Just ensure you use vegetable broth or water instead of chicken broth if you're concerned about hidden animal products.
This Aromatic Veg Pulao is a delightful addition to any Ramadan Iftar, offering a comforting and flavorful experience without excessive cooking time. The vibrant colors and aromatic spices will elevate your meal, leaving your family and friends wanting more. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying recipe throughout the blessed month!