How to Make Indian Vegetable Pulao with Fresh Herbs
Indian Vegetable Pulao is a fragrant and colorful dish that brings together a variety of vegetables and aromatic spices. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, it is a perfect way to savor the flavors of Indian cuisine. Making it with fresh herbs enhances its aroma and taste. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide on how to make Indian Vegetable Pulao with fresh herbs.
Ingredients
To prepare Indian Vegetable Pulao, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, bell peppers)
- 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 3-4 green chilies, slit
- 1 small piece of ginger, grated
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 2-3 cardamom pods
- 1-2 cloves
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh herbs (coriander and mint leaves), chopped
Preparation Steps
Follow these steps to create a delightful Indian Vegetable Pulao with fresh herbs:
1. Rinse the Rice
Begin by rinsing 1 cup of basmati rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming sticky. Soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes and then drain.
2. Sauté the Vegetables and Spices
In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee or vegetable oil over medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds and let them sizzle. Then add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
Next, add the slit green chilies, grated ginger, minced garlic, bay leaf, cardamom pods, and cloves. Sauté for another couple of minutes until aromatic.
3. Cook the Vegetables
Add the mixed vegetables to the pan. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until slightly tender. You can use a combination of carrots, peas, beans, and bell peppers depending on your preference.
4. Add the Rice
Now, gently add the soaked and drained rice to the pan. Stir carefully so that the rice does not break. Cook for around 2 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors of the spices.
5. Add Water and Cook
Add 2 cups of water and salt to taste. Stir well, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed among the vegetables. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the water has evaporated.
6. Incorporate Fresh Herbs
Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and add the chopped fresh herbs (coriander and mint leaves). Gently fluff the pulao with a fork to combine the herbs with the rice.
Serving Suggestions
Your delightful Indian Vegetable Pulao is now ready to serve! It pairs beautifully with raita, pickle, or a simple salad. For added richness, consider serving it with a side of yogurt or a curry of your choice.
Tips for the Best Vegetable Pulao
- For enhanced flavor, you can add a dash of lemon juice just before serving.
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables according to your taste.
- Always use fresh herbs for the best aroma and flavor.
This Indian Vegetable Pulao, made with fresh herbs, is not only nutritious but also a feast for the senses. Try this recipe at home and enjoy the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine!