Vegetable Pilau: A Delightful Mixed Vegetable Rice
Indulge in the vibrant and aromatic flavors of Vegetable Pilau, a delightful dish that combines tender rice with a medley of colorful vegetables and fragrant spices. Perfect for a vegetarian meal, this easy-to-make recipe serves four and is sure to please everyone at the table. With a medium spice level, it strikes a perfect balance between warmth and flavor.
Overview
- Dish Name: Vegetable Pilau
- Description: Mixed Vegetable Rice
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Serves: 4
- Dietary Info: Vegetarian
- Spice Level: Medium
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Peas | 50g |
| Carrot (diced small) | 1 |
| Mixed vegetables (e.g., mushrooms, cauliflower, sweetcorn) | 100g |
| Rice | 200g |
| Saffron strands | A pinch |
| Milk | A splash |
| Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Bay leaves | 2 |
| Cassia bark | 1 stick |
| Black peppercorns | 5 |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp |
| Green cardamoms | 4 |
| Black cardamom | 1 |
| Cloves | 2 |
| Onions (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Salt | To taste |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 tsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Green chili (slit) | 1 |
| Mint leaves | A handful |
| Fresh coriander leaves | A handful |
| Water | 400ml |
Instructions
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Prep the Rice: Begin by washing the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps to remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky. Set the washed rice aside to drain.
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Infuse the Saffron: In a small bowl, combine the saffron strands with a splash of milk. Allow the saffron to steep for a few minutes, which will enhance the rice’s flavor and color.
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Sauté the Spices: Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the bay leaves, cassia bark, black peppercorns, cumin seeds, green cardamoms, black cardamom, and cloves. Stir-fry the spices for about two minutes until they become aromatic, releasing their essential oils.
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Cook the Onions: Add the chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they become soft and translucent. Season with salt and continue to cook until the onions just begin to turn golden.
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Add Aromatics: Stir in the grated ginger, minced garlic, slit green chili, mint leaves, and fresh coriander. Sauté for another minute, allowing the ingredients to combine and the flavors to deepen.
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Incorporate Vegetables: Add the mixed vegetables, including peas and diced carrots, to the pan. Stir gently to coat the vegetables in the aromatic mixture and cook for a few minutes until they are slightly tender.
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Combine Rice and Water: Gently fold in the washed rice, ensuring not to break the grains. Pour in the water and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook undisturbed for 10 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors.
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Finish with Saffron: After 10 minutes, splash the saffron-infused milk over the rice. Keep the lid on the pan for an additional few minutes to allow the saffron flavor to permeate the rice.
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Fluff and Serve: Remove the lid and use a fork to gently fluff the rice, separating the grains. Serve your fragrant Vegetable Pilau warm, garnished with additional mint or coriander if desired.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~220 kcal |
| Protein | ~6g |
| Carbohydrates | ~40g |
| Fat | ~7g |
| Fiber | ~4g |
Conclusion
Vegetable Pilau is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and colors that come together harmoniously in one pot. With its perfect blend of spices and a delightful assortment of vegetables, this dish makes for a satisfying lunch or dinner option. Pair it with your favorite raita or yogurt for a complete meal that will impress family and friends alike. Enjoy this nutritious vegetarian dish, and savor every bite!
