Instant pulao is a hearty one-pot recipe where basmati rice is cooked with assorted vegetables and fresh herbs in the fragrant masala paste. Additionally, paneer and cashews are added for richness. This dish is quick to prepare and is perfect for your lunch and dinner when you are looking for a filling meal.
Begin by preparing a paste of mint, coriander, garlic, ginger, green chillies, cloves, cardamom, pepper and cinnamon in a mixer jar. Use water for that exact smooth texture. This paste will work as the heart of the pulao.
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Temper the spices
Now, heat the ghee in a pressure cooker, making sure to use a medium flame. Then add bay leaves and cumin seeds. Wait for some time until they sizzle and release their fragrance. This tempering creates a flavourful base for rice and vegetables to absorb.
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Sauté onions and vegetables
Then, add sliced onions and cook until they turn soft but not browned. Next, add carrot, potato, beans, peas, capsicum, and salt. Stir well and sauté for a minute so the vegetables start absorbing the spice aroma.
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Cook with masala paste
Mix in the prepared masala paste. Stir and cook until the raw smell of ginger and garlic fades. The paste will coat the vegetables and deepen the flavour of the pulao.
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Add rice and water
Pour in 3 cups of water and bring it to a boil. Add soaked basmati rice, salt, and lemon juice. Mix gently, ensuring the rice is evenly spread without breaking the grains.
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Pressure cook pulao
Cover the cooker and cook for 2 whistles on medium flame. Allow the steam to release naturally. This ensures the rice cooks perfectly while staying fluffy and separate.
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Roast and serve
In a small pan, heat ghee. Add paneer cubes and cashews. Roast until the cashews turn golden and the paneer develops a light crust. This adds crunch and richness to the pulao. Gently mix the roasted paneer and cashews into the pulao. Be careful not to break the rice grains. Serve hot and enjoy the aroma of freshly cooked herbs and spices.