Spicy Mushroom Pulao (Kumbh Pulao) Recipe: A Wholesome and Flavorful Delight
Are you looking to add a bit of spice and comfort to your weeknight meals? Look no further than this Spicy Mushroom Pulao or Kumbh Pulao, a delectable Indian rice dish that is packed with aromatic spices, earthy mushrooms, and fluffy basmati rice. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started, this dish promises to be an easy and rewarding meal. It’s vegetarian, rich in flavor, and perfect for any dinner table. Let’s dive into the vibrant world of spices and mushrooms with this straightforward recipe that will leave your taste buds satisfied and your family asking for seconds.
Ingredients for Spicy Mushroom Pulao
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati rice | 1 cup |
| Button mushrooms, sliced | 200 grams |
| Ghee | 2 tbsp |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 tsp |
| Onion, thinly sliced | 1 medium |
| Tomatoes, finely chopped | 2 medium |
| Green chillies, finely chopped | 2 |
| Ginger, finely chopped | 1 inch |
| Garlic, finely chopped | 4 cloves |
| Bay leaf (Tej Patta) | 1 leaf |
| Cinnamon stick (Dalchini) | 1 inch |
| Cardamom (Elaichi) pods/seeds | 2 |
| Cloves (Laung) | 2 |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 tsp |
| Garam masala powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Coriander leaves (Dhania) | 10 sprigs, finely chopped |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
Instructions for Making Spicy Mushroom Pulao
-
Prepare the Rice:
- Start by rinsing the basmati rice thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in enough water for about 20 minutes. After soaking, drain the rice and set it aside.
-
Cook the Spices:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Once the ghee melts and becomes hot, add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds. Let them splutter, then add the whole spices: 1 bay leaf, 1-inch cinnamon stick, 2 cardamom pods, and 2 cloves. Sauté the spices for a few seconds until they release their aromatic fragrance.
-
Sauté Onions, Ginger, Garlic, and Chilies:
- Add the thinly sliced onion, 1-inch finely chopped ginger, 4 finely chopped garlic cloves, and 2 finely chopped green chilies to the pan. Stir the mixture and sauté until the onions turn golden brown, which will take about 5-7 minutes. This step adds a deep, rich flavor to the base of your pulao.
-
Cook the Tomatoes and Spices:
- Stir in the finely chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and turn mushy, which should take another 5-7 minutes. Once the tomatoes have broken down, add 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon of garam masala, and salt to taste. Continue to cook for a few minutes until the oil (ghee) starts separating from the masala mixture, which means the spices are well-cooked.
-
Add the Mushrooms:
- Add the sliced button mushrooms to the pan and sauté on high heat for about 5-6 minutes until they turn golden brown and any moisture from the mushrooms has evaporated. This ensures that the mushrooms retain their texture and absorb the spices, enhancing the overall flavor.
-
Combine the Rice:
- Add the soaked and drained basmati rice to the pan with the mushroom mixture. Gently stir to mix the rice with the spices and mushrooms, being careful not to break the rice grains.
-
Cook the Pulao:
- Pour 1 ½ cups of water into the pan and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. It’s important not to open the lid during this time so that the rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the wonderful flavors.
-
Rest the Pulao:
- After the rice is cooked and the water is fully absorbed, turn off the heat. Let the pulao sit covered for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Then, gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
-
Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the Spicy Mushroom Pulao with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of color and freshness. Serve it hot with a side of Tomato Onion Cucumber Raita or Pudina Dahi Chutney for an extra layer of flavor. For a delightful crunch, you can also serve papad or masala chips alongside the dish.
Serving Suggestions
The Spicy Mushroom Pulao pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, making it a versatile choice for dinner. Here are a few suggestions:
- Paneer Butter Masala: The creamy richness of paneer combined with the spiced mushroom pulao makes for a comforting meal.
- Dal Makhani: A traditional, hearty lentil dish that complements the pulao beautifully.
- Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side dish that balances the heat from the pulao and adds a refreshing touch.
- Papad or Masala Chips: For added crunch and texture, serve some crisp papads or masala chips on the side.
Additional Tips for Perfecting Your Pulao
- Customize with Vegetables: For added nutrition and color, consider adding green peas, carrots, or bell peppers along with the mushrooms. This will make the dish even more wholesome and flavorful.
- Adjust the Spice Level: You can easily control the spiciness by adjusting the number of green chilies used in the recipe. If you prefer a milder flavor, use just one or skip the chilies altogether.
- For a Richer Flavor: If you enjoy a more indulgent flavor, try replacing half of the water with coconut milk. This will infuse the rice with a creamy, tropical twist.
- Cooking the Rice: Be gentle while stirring the rice after adding it to the pan to avoid breaking the delicate basmati grains. A gentle hand will ensure that the rice remains fluffy and light.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 4 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 42 grams |
| Fat | 6 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Final Thoughts
The Spicy Mushroom Pulao is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that is both satisfying and full of flavor. This easy-to-make recipe will surely become a staple in your home, especially when you’re in the mood for a light yet fulfilling meal. The earthy mushrooms, complemented by the bold Indian spices, make each bite a delightful experience.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this pulao will surely impress with its fragrant aroma, vibrant colors, and balanced flavors. Enjoy the process of creating this dish, and let the comfort of home-cooked, flavorful food fill your kitchen.
Happy cooking!
