Peas Pulao Recipe – A Flavorful Delight for Every Meal
Peas Pulao, also known as Matar Pulao, is a traditional Indian dish that brings a perfect balance of simplicity and flavors. Made with fragrant basmati rice, fresh peas, and aromatic spices, this pulao can be served as a main course or as a side dish with curries and dals. Whether you’re preparing it for a weekday dinner or a special weekend meal, this dish is quick, satisfying, and delightful for all ages. Serve it with a side of Paneer Butter Masala, Dal Makhani, or soft Phulka for a complete and wholesome meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati rice | 1 1/2 cups |
| Ghee (clarified butter) | 1 tablespoon |
| Cumin seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Star anise | 1 |
| Green cardamom pods | 2 |
| Cloves | 2 |
| Cinnamon stick | 1-inch piece |
| Onion (finely sliced) | 1 large |
| Salt | To taste |
| Green peas | 1/2 cup |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Main Course
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Soak the Rice
Begin by washing the basmati rice thoroughly and soaking it in water for 20 minutes. This step helps the rice cook evenly and gives it a fluffy texture. -
-
Heat Ghee in a Pressure Cooker
In a pressure cooker, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee over medium heat. Ghee adds a rich flavor to the dish, making it aromatic and comforting. -
Sauté the Whole Spices
Once the ghee is heated, add the whole spices: bay leaf, cumin seeds, star anise, cardamom pods, cloves, and cinnamon. Allow them to sizzle and crackle for a few seconds, releasing their aromatic oils. This will create a beautiful fragrance in your kitchen. -
Cook the Onions
Add the sliced onion to the cooker and sauté it until it turns golden brown and soft. The caramelized onions will add a mild sweetness and depth of flavor to the pulao. -
Add Green Peas and Rice
After the onions have softened, add the green peas and soaked rice to the cooker. Stir everything gently to combine the rice with the onions and spices. -
Cook the Pulao
Add water to the cooker based on your rice’s cooking requirement (generally 1.5 to 2 cups of water for 1 1/2 cups of rice). Add salt to taste and mix well. Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook the pulao for 3 whistles on medium heat. After three whistles, turn off the heat and allow the cooker to rest for a few minutes before opening it. -
Fluff and Serve
Once the pressure is released, open the cooker and fluff the rice gently with a fork. This helps to separate the grains and ensures the pulao is light and fluffy. -
Serving Suggestions
Transfer the Peas Pulao to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh coriander, if desired. Serve it alongside your favorite curry dishes, such as Paneer Butter Masala, Dal Makhani, or Phulka, for a wholesome and delicious meal.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
Tips & Variations
- Use of Ghee: For an authentic taste, always opt for ghee in this recipe. However, if you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute it with oil.
- Spice Variations: You can adjust the whole spices according to your preference. Add a few more cardamom or cinnamon sticks if you prefer a stronger spice flavor.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, peas, or potatoes to make the pulao more colorful and nutritious.
- Rice Alternatives: Though basmati rice is commonly used, you can experiment with other rice varieties like jasmine rice for a subtle variation in taste.
This Peas Pulao recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves flavorful yet simple vegetarian dishes. It brings together the richness of spices with the natural sweetness of peas, creating a dish that is both comforting and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special gathering, this pulao will surely impress your guests. Enjoy!
