Peas Pulao Recipe – North Indian Matar Pulao
Introduction
Peas Pulao, also known as Matar Pulao, is a delightful North Indian rice dish that brings together fragrant basmati rice and fresh green peas, all cooked to perfection with aromatic spices. This vegetarian main course is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it on a special occasion or as a comforting weeknight dinner, Peas Pulao is sure to satisfy and impress everyone at the table. Pair it with a side of curry, dal, or yogurt to create a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati rice | 1-1/2 cups |
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Bay leaf (Tej Patta) | 1 |
| Star anise | 1 |
| Cardamom (Elaichi) Pods/Seeds | 2 |
| Cloves (Laung) | 2 |
| Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini) | 1 inch |
| Salt | To taste |
| Onion (sliced) | 1 |
| Green peas (Matar) | 1/2 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 230 |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Total Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 1 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and preparation methods.
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
Instructions
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Soaking the Rice: Begin by washing the basmati rice thoroughly under running water to remove excess starch. After rinsing, soak the rice in water for about 20 minutes. This soaking time ensures that the grains cook evenly and remain fluffy.
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Cooking the Spices: In a pressure cooker, heat the ghee over medium flame. Once the ghee is hot, add the whole spices: bay leaf, cumin seeds, star anise, cardamom pods, cloves, and the cinnamon stick. Sauté these spices until they begin to sizzle and release their fragrant aroma, which should take about a minute.
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Sautéing the Onions: After the spices have bloomed, add the sliced onion to the cooker. Stir and cook the onions until they soften and start to turn translucent, about 1 to 2 minutes. Avoid browning the onions; the goal is to enhance their sweetness without caramelization.
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Adding the Peas and Rice: Once the onions are ready, season with salt and then add the green peas. Gently stir in the drained basmati rice, ensuring that the rice is well coated with the ghee and spices.
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Cooking the Pulao: Pour approximately 2-1/2 cups of water into the cooker, adjusting the quantity based on the quality and age of the rice. Stir gently to combine, then close the lid of the pressure cooker. Cook under pressure for about three whistles, then turn off the flame. Allow the pressure to release naturally.
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Fluffing the Rice: After the pressure has released, carefully open the pressure cooker lid. Use a fork to gently fluff the Matar Pulao, separating the grains to achieve that perfect, light texture.
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Serving: Transfer the Peas Pulao to a serving bowl and serve hot. This delectable dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments such as Smoked Dhaba Dal, Masala Lachha Paratha, Achari Paneer Masala, or Easy Creamy Chicken Curry. For a complete meal, add a side of Pickled Onions and finish with a delightful dessert like Rose Gulkand Phirni.
Conclusion
Peas Pulao is a versatile dish that embodies the essence of Indian cuisine, characterized by its vibrant flavors and comforting aroma. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dish or as part of a larger spread, it offers a satisfying experience that will have your family and guests coming back for seconds. Prepare this simple yet elegant dish for your next gathering or weeknight dinner, and relish the joy it brings to your table. Enjoy!
This Peas Pulao recipe serves as an invitation to explore the beautiful and diverse world of North Indian cuisine, allowing you to create a dish that is both delicious and satisfying. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary journey that promises warmth and happiness in every bite!
