Veg Pulao: A Flavorful and Aromatic Delight

Ingredients for Veg Pulao

To prepare this delicious Veg Pulao, you will need the following ingredients:

• Rice: 300 grams
• Carrot sticks: 2 cups
• Peas: 1 cup
• Onion slices: 1 cup
• Ginger garlic paste: 1 teaspoon
• Black cardamom (Bari elaichi): 2
• Cinnamon stick (dalchini): 1 large
• Cloves (long): 6
• Bay leaf (tej pata): 1 large
• Water: 300 ml
• Ghee or Oil: ¾ cup
• Salt: ¾ teaspoon

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Rice

• Wash the rice thoroughly and drain the water. Set it aside.

2. Cooking the Spices

• Heat ghee or oil in a pressure cooker.
• Add black cardamom, cinnamon stick, cloves, and bay leaf. Sauté until the spices turn slightly brown.

3. Adding Vegetables

• Add sliced onions and fry until they start to brown.
• Add carrot sticks and peas, and fry on high flame for one minute. Cover the cooker while frying.

4. Incorporating Ginger Garlic Paste

• Add ginger garlic paste and salt. Fry on low flame for one minute, covering the cooker with a lid.

5. Adding Rice

• Add the washed rice and fry on medium flame for 3-4 minutes until the rice appears free-flowing.

6. Cooking the Pulao

• Reduce the flame to low and pour in 300 ml of water. Stir well and secure the pressure cooker lid.
• Cook on high flame until one whistle, then reduce to low flame and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
• Turn off the flame and allow the cooker to cool naturally.

Your Veg Pulao is now ready to serve. Pair it with raita, pickle, or any side dish of your choice.

Nutritional Benefits and Interesting Facts

Veg Pulao is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here are some interesting stats and facts:

• Rice: A staple in many diets, rice is a good source of energy and provides essential vitamins and minerals. According to the USDA, 100 grams of cooked white rice contains approximately 130 calories, 2.4 grams of protein, and 28.7 grams of carbohydrates.
• Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, carrots are excellent for eye health. They also provide dietary fiber, vitamin K1, and antioxidants. Source: Healthline.
• Peas: These small legumes are high in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins like vitamin C and K. A cup of peas contains about 8 grams of protein and 7 grams of fiber. Source: Medical News Today.

Little-Known Facts

• Spices: The use of spices like black cardamom and cinnamon not only enhances flavor but also offers health benefits. Black cardamom is known for its digestive properties, while cinnamon has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Source: WebMD.

Conclusion

Veg Pulao is a versatile and nutritious dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste. Its rich aroma and delightful flavors make it a favorite in many households. Whether you're looking for a quick meal or a special dish for a gathering, Veg Pulao is sure to impress.

For more detailed recipes and cooking tips, you can visit BBC Good Food or Serious Eats.

Enjoy your culinary journey with this aromatic and flavorful Veg Pulao!