Nepalese Vegetable Pulao Recipe: A Flavorful Rice Dish with a Medley of Vegetables
Discover the vibrant and aromatic flavors of Nepal with this Nepalese Vegetable Pulao Recipe! This dish combines fluffy Basmati rice, a blend of fragrant spices, and colorful vegetables for a wholesome and satisfying main course. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it pairs beautifully with cooling raita and crispy sides for a complete meal. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
Below is a comprehensive list of the ingredients required for making this delightful 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 piece |
| Cloves (Laung) | 4 pieces |
| Black Cardamom (Badi Elaichi) | 2 pieces |
| Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini) | 1/2 inch |
| Ginger-Garlic Paste | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Green Chillies (Minced) | 4 pieces |
| Onion (Finely Chopped) | 1 medium |
| Tomato (Finely Chopped) | 1 medium |
| Green Peas (Matar) | 1/2 cup |
| Sunflower Oil | As needed |
| Salt | To taste |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon |
Preparation & Cooking Details
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings | 2 |
| Cuisine | Nepalese |
| Course | Main Course |
| Diet | Vegetarian |
Nutritional Information
This nutritional breakdown is based on a serving size for 2 people.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~280 kcal |
| Protein | ~6 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~52 g |
| Fats | ~4 g |
| Fiber | ~3 g |
| Sodium | ~300 mg |
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfectly cooked Nepalese Vegetable Pulao.
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| 1 | Rinse the Basmati rice thoroughly in water and soak it for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside. |
| 2 | Heat sunflower oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add cumin seeds and let them splutter for a few seconds. |
| 3 | Add the bay leaf, cloves, cinnamon stick, and black cardamom. Cook on low heat for about 15-20 seconds until the spices release their aromatic fragrance. |
| 4 | Stir in the turmeric powder, ginger-garlic paste, and minced green chilies. Sauté for another minute. |
| 5 | Add the chopped onion and tomato, followed by green peas. Stir well and cook for 3-5 minutes on low heat until the vegetables soften. |
| 6 | Gently add the soaked and drained rice to the pan. Mix everything carefully, ensuring the rice is coated evenly with the spices and vegetables. |
| 7 | Pour in 2 cups of water and season with salt to taste. Stir briefly, then cover the pan with a lid. Let it cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. |
| 8 | When the rice is almost cooked, drizzle lemon juice over the pulao and mix gently. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. |
| 9 | Turn off the heat and allow the pulao to rest for a few minutes before serving. Fluff the rice with a fork before plating. |
| 10 | Serve hot with a refreshing Mint and Pomegranate Raita or Crispy Crunchy Roti Ke Papad for an authentic Nepalese meal experience. |
Tips & Variations
- Customize the Vegetables: Add diced carrots, cauliflower, or bell peppers to enhance the nutrition and flavor.
- Spice Levels: Adjust the number of green chilies based on your spice tolerance.
- Ghee Option: Substitute sunflower oil with ghee for a richer taste.
- Rice Consistency: For fluffier rice, reduce the water slightly and cook the pulao on a very low flame.
Serving Suggestions
Nepalese Vegetable Pulao is versatile and can be paired with various side dishes:
- Mint and Pomegranate Raita: A cooling yogurt-based accompaniment.
- Crispy Roti Ke Papad: Adds crunch and complements the pulao’s soft texture.
- Achar (Pickle): Nepali-style pickles add a tangy and spicy kick.
- Vegetable Curry: Serve alongside a mild vegetable curry for a complete meal.
Enjoy this Nepalese Vegetable Pulao as a comforting weekday lunch or a festive addition to your dining table. Its balance of fragrant spices and wholesome ingredients will transport you straight to the heart of Nepal with every bite!
