Mint Coriander Spice Pulao (Pudina Dhaniya Pulao)
Aromatic, flavorful, and delightfully refreshing, this Mint Coriander Spice Pulao combines the rich essence of fragrant spices with the freshness of mint and coriander leaves. This vegetarian Indian rice dish is not only a treat to the palate but also an easy-to-make recipe perfect for a wholesome meal. With the subtle flavors of star anise, cinnamon, and fennel, paired with the natural brightness of mint and coriander, this pulao is a perfect complement to hearty dals, curries, and rotis.
Recipe Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | Indian |
| Course | Main Course |
| Diet | Vegetarian |
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Serves | 4-6 servings |
| Nutritional Info | Calories: 280 kcal (per serving), Carbs: 45g, Protein: 4g, Fat: 8g, Fiber: 4g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice (washed and dried) | 1-1/2 cups |
| Coriander leaves (finely chopped) | 1/3 cup |
| Ghee | 1 tbsp |
| Mint leaves (finely chopped) | 1/3 cup |
| Star anise | 1 piece |
| Fennel seeds | 1/2 tsp |
| Bay leaves | 2 leaves |
| Cinnamon stick | 1 inch |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Pressure Cooker:
Begin by heating ghee in a pressure cooker over medium heat. Once the ghee is hot, add the whole spices: star anise, fennel seeds, bay leaves, and cinnamon stick. Let them sizzle for about 15 seconds to release their aromatic flavors. -
-
Add Fresh Herbs:
Next, add the finely chopped coriander leaves and mint leaves to the cooker. Stir them in with the spices, allowing the fresh herbs to infuse the ghee and spices for another minute or so. -
Cook the Rice:
Add the washed and dried rice to the cooker and mix well with the fragrant herbs and spices. Stir for a minute, ensuring the rice is well-coated with the ghee and herb mixture. -
Add Water and Cook:
Pour in 3 cups of water and add salt to taste. Stir everything together, then close the pressure cooker lid. Cook the rice on medium heat for 2-3 whistles. Afterward, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally. -
Final Touches:
Once the pressure has released, open the cooker and gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. Transfer the cooked rice to a serving bowl, ensuring it remains light and fluffy. -
Serving Suggestion:
Serve this refreshing Pudina Dhaniya Pulao with classic Indian sides like Dal Makhani, Paneer Butter Masala, or freshly made Phulkas. It’s an ideal dish for a comforting lunch or dinner!
Cooking Tips
- If you don’t have a pressure cooker, you can also make this pulao in a regular pot. In this case, bring the water to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and cook the rice with the lid on for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the water is absorbed.
- Mint and coriander are essential to the flavor profile of this dish, so don’t skip on these ingredients.
- You can also add cashews or raisins for a richer, more festive version of this pulao, adding a touch of sweetness and texture.
Serving Variations
- For a Special Occasion: Pair it with a rich Butter Chicken, or a flavorful Vegetable Korma for a complete Indian feast.
- For a Lighter Meal: Enjoy it with a side of cool yogurt raita or a refreshing cucumber salad for a light, yet filling meal.
This Mint Coriander Spice Pulao (Pudina Dhaniya Pulao) is not just a rice dish but a burst of fresh flavors that will elevate your dining experience. Its easy preparation makes it a go-to dish for busy weekdays or for when you crave something light but aromatic. Enjoy this beautiful recipe with your loved ones and treat them to a fragrant, flavorful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!
