Nepalese Vegetable Pulao Recipe
Experience the Fragrant Flavors of Nepal in Every Bite
Nepalese Vegetable Pulao is a quintessential dish from the Himalayan country, known for its rich and aromatic flavors. This delightful vegetarian rice dish is made with a harmonious blend of spices, vegetables, and perfectly cooked Basmati rice. The unique combination of whole spices like cumin, cardamom, and cinnamon creates a fragrant and flavorful experience that pleases the senses. Easy to prepare, yet bursting with bold flavors, it is a perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weekday meal or a festive gathering.
Cuisine: Nepalese
Course: Main Course
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients for Nepalese Vegetable Pulao
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati rice | 2 cups |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Bay leaf (Tej Patta) | 1 leaf |
| Cloves (Laung) | 4 cloves |
| Black cardamom (Badi Elaichi) | 2 pods |
| Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini) | 1/2-inch piece |
| Ginger garlic paste | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Green chillies (minced) | 4 pieces |
| Onion | 1 medium, finely chopped |
| Tomato | 1 medium, finely chopped |
| Green peas (Matar) | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | to taste |
| Oil | as needed |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serves: 4-5
Instructions for Nepalese Vegetable Pulao
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Soak the Rice: Begin by soaking the Basmati rice in water for at least 30 minutes. This step helps to achieve perfectly fluffy rice when cooked.
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Heat the Oil: In a kadai or a heavy-bottomed pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Once the oil is mildly hot, add the cumin seeds and let them splutter. This step infuses the oil with the fragrance of cumin, a key component of the dish.
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Add Whole Spices: Next, add the bay leaf, cloves, black cardamom, and cinnamon stick to the pan. Let them cook on low heat for about 15 to 20 seconds, allowing their essential oils to release and fragrance to fill the kitchen.
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Spice It Up: Now, add the turmeric powder, ginger-garlic paste, and minced green chillies. Stir them well and cook for another minute until the ginger-garlic paste begins to release its aroma and the spices blend together.
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Cook the Vegetables: Add the chopped tomatoes, onions, and green peas to the pan. Stir everything together and cook on low heat for about 3-5 minutes, until the onions become translucent and the tomatoes soften.
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Add the Rice: Drain the water from the soaked rice and add it to the pan. Stir gently to mix the rice with the spices and vegetables, ensuring the rice is well-coated with the flavorful oil and spices.
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Cook the Pulao: Add 2 cups of water and salt to the pan. Stir again to combine. Cover the pan and let it cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the water has been absorbed. Keep an eye on the rice towards the end to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
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Finish with Lemon: When the rice is almost cooked, add the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir the rice gently to mix the lemon juice through, which will add a fresh tanginess to the dish.
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Serve: Once the rice is cooked and the flavors are well-mixed, switch off the heat. Serve the Nepalese Vegetable Pulao hot, ideally paired with Mint and Pomegranate Raita and crispy Roti Ke Papad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Nepalese Vegetable Pulao is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course alongside a variety of sides. For a traditional Nepalese meal, pair it with a refreshing Mint and Pomegranate Raita and crispy Roti Ke Papad. You can also enjoy it with a simple cucumber salad or pickle for an added burst of flavor.
This pulao is perfect for a weekday lunch, a casual dinner, or even as part of a festive spread. The aromatic spices and vibrant vegetables make it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 350mg |
| Vitamin C | 6% of Daily Value |
| Iron | 10% of Daily Value |
Notes:
- Adjust the level of green chillies based on your spice preference.
- You can also add other vegetables like carrots, peas, or potatoes to enhance the flavor and texture of the pulao.
- For a more authentic touch, you can add a pinch of garam masala towards the end for an extra layer of spice.
- The lemon juice adds a refreshing zest, but feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference.
