Prepare yourself for a culinary adventure as we delve into the realm of wholesome goodness with this delectable Lentil and Mixed Veggie-Basmati Rice Pulao recipe, perfect for those weeknights when you crave something both nutritious and flavorful! 🍲🌿
This culinary masterpiece requires a total preparation and cooking time of 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it an ideal dish to whip up when you have a bit of time to spare in the kitchen. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s embark on a journey of tantalizing tastes and aromatic aromas! 🕒✨
Ingredients:
- 1 cup brown lentils
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1 large tomato, chopped
- 10-12 mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 3/4 cup green peas
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1/8 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 green cardamoms
- 1 clove
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Oil, for cooking
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 482.2
- Fat: 9.2g
- Saturated Fat: 1.3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 37.1mg
- Carbohydrates: 81.2g
- Fiber: 21.4g
- Sugar: 8.9g
- Protein: 21.4g
Servings: 4
Instructions:
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Begin by boiling the brown lentils in 2 cups of water for approximately 30 minutes until they are tender yet firm to the bite.
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While the lentils are simmering, rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
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In a separate pot, add the rinsed basmati rice along with salt to taste, lemon juice (which not only enhances the flavor but also helps retain the rice’s vibrant color and fluffiness), and an additional cup of water.
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Cook the rice over medium heat for about 15 minutes until it is cooked through and each grain is separate and fluffy.
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In another pot, boil the cauliflower florets in water infused with turmeric powder until they are tender yet still retain their shape and color.
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While the lentils and rice are cooking, heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the cinnamon stick, bay leaf, cloves, and cardamoms to the skillet, and stir-fry for about a minute until the spices become fragrant and release their aromas.
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Toss in the sliced onion and slit green chilies, and sauté until the onions turn a beautiful golden-brown hue, infusing the dish with their sweet caramelized flavor.
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Introduce the colorful trio of bell peppers—red, yellow, and green—into the skillet, and sauté for a few seconds until they begin to soften slightly.
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Incorporate the chopped tomato, green peas, sliced mushrooms, and boiled cauliflower florets into the skillet, mixing them well with the aromatic spices and veggies.
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Allow the mixture to cook over medium heat for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the vegetables are cooked through and tender, and their flavors meld together in perfect harmony.
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Once the lentils and rice are cooked, gently fold the cooked rice-lentil mixture into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables, ensuring that every grain of rice and lentil is coated in the flavorful medley of spices and veggies.
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Sprinkle a handful of freshly chopped cilantro over the pulao for a burst of vibrant green color and a refreshing herbal aroma.
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Serve the Lentil and Mixed Veggie-Basmati Rice Pulao piping hot, preferably straight from the skillet to the plate, accompanied by a dollop of low-fat yogurt or your favorite raita to complement the dish’s rich flavors and textures.
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Gather your loved ones around the table, and savor each spoonful of this wholesome and satisfying pulao, reveling in the joy of good food and great company! 🍽️🥂
With its nutrient-rich ingredients, aromatic spices, and vibrant colors, this Lentil and Mixed Veggie-Basmati Rice Pulao is sure to become a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire, perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering with friends and family. So go ahead, indulge your senses and treat yourself to the irresistible flavors of this mouthwatering dish! 🌟🌿
