How to Cook Veg-Pulao

How to Cook Veg Pulao | वेज पुलाव बनाने की विधि

Veg Pulao, a simple and flavorful rice dish, is made with mixed vegetables and aromatic spices. It’s a quick and delicious one-pot meal that can be served for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish with your main course. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this easy Veg Pulao recipe is sure to impress you.

Ingredients | सामग्री

For the Rice | चावल के लिए:

1 cup Basmati rice (बासमती चावल)
2 cups water (पानी)
1 bay leaf (तेज पत्ता)
2-3 cloves (लौंग)
2-3 cardamoms (इलायची)
1-inch cinnamon stick (दारचीनी)
Salt to taste (नमक स्वाद अनुसार)

For the Vegetables | सब्ज़ियों के लिए:

1/2 cup peas (मटर)
1/2 cup chopped carrots (गाजर)
1/2 cup chopped beans (फली)
1/2 cup chopped potatoes (आलू)
1 small onion (प्याज)
1 green chili (हरी मिर्च)
1/2 tsp ginger-garlic paste (अदरक-लहसुन का पेस्ट)

For Tempering | तड़का लगाने के लिए:

2 tbsp ghee or oil (घी या तेल)
1/2 tsp cumin seeds (जीरा)
1-2 cloves (लौंग)
1 small cinnamon stick (दारचीनी)
1/2 tsp garam masala (गरम मसाला)
1 tsp coriander powder (धनिया पाउडर)
Fresh coriander leaves (सजावट के लिए हरा धनिया)

How to Make Veg Pulao | वेज पुलाव बनाने की विधि

Step 1: Rinse and Soak Rice | चावल धोकर भिगोएं

Start by washing 1 cup of basmati rice under cold water. Rinse it until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
Soak the rice in water for about 15-20 minutes for fluffy rice.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables | सब्ज़ियों को तैयार करें

Peel and chop the vegetables: carrots, beans, potatoes, and chop the onion.
Set the chopped vegetables aside.

Step 3: Tempering (Tadka) | तड़का लगाएं

Heat 2 tbsp ghee or oil in a large pan or pressure cooker.
Add 1/2 tsp cumin seeds, 2-3 cloves, 1 small cinnamon stick, and let them splutter.
Add 1 small chopped onion and 1 green chili. Saute until the onion turns soft and golden brown.
Add 1/2 tsp ginger-garlic paste and sauté it for 1 minute, releasing the aroma.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables | सब्ज़ियां पकाएं

Now add the chopped vegetables: peas, carrots, beans, and potatoes.
Sprinkle in 1/2 tsp garam masala and 1 tsp coriander powder.
Stir well and cook the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the spices to coat them evenly.

Step 5: Add Rice and Water | चावल और पानी डालें

Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pan with the vegetables. Stir gently to mix.
Add 2 cups of water and salt to taste. Give it a final stir.

Step 6: Cook the Pulao | पुलाव पकाएं

Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to low.
Cover the pan with a lid and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the water is absorbed.
You can also cook the pulao in a pressure cooker, but do not add the pressure. Just cook for 1-2 whistles and then let it rest.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve | सजाकर परोसें

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it gently with a fork to separate the grains.
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Serve hot with raita (yogurt) or salad.

Tips for Perfect Veg Pulao | वेज पुलाव बनाने के टिप्स

Rice: Always soak the rice for a better texture.
Veggies: You can add or remove vegetables based on your preference. Some people add peas, carrots, beans, or even corn and cauliflower.
Spices: Adjust the spices according to your taste. If you like it spicy, you can add more green chilies or chili powder.
Cooking: If you’re cooking in a pressure cooker, be careful not to overcook the rice. One or two whistles are enough.

Conclusion | निष्कर्ष

Making Veg Pulao is super easy and a great dish for any occasion. You can make it for lunch, dinner, or even as a side dish for a festive meal. The mix of vegetables and fragrant basmati rice, combined with spices, creates a satisfying meal for everyone. Plus, it’s a perfect vegetarian option for guests!

Enjoy your Veg Pulao and let me know how it turned out in the comments below. 😊

Photo Suggestions:

Before Cooking: Show the ingredients laid out neatly on a table (rice, vegetables, and spices).
Tempering: Capture the spices spluttering in the ghee/oil.
Cooking the Vegetables: A shot of the vegetables sautéing in the pan.
Final Dish: Show the fluffy, vibrant Veg Pulao served on a plate, garnished with fresh coriander.

This Veg Pulao recipe is quick, easy, and delicious. You’ll love how this comforting dish comes together in no time!