Introduction

 

Growing up, my father introduced me to the delightful world of cooking, and one recipe that holds a special place in my heart is his Super Easy Vegetable Pulav. As a child, I was always amazed by how effortlessly he could whip up a delicious meal with just a few ingredients. His version of Vegetable Pulav is not only packed with colorful veggies but also includes a unique twist with the addition of cashews, almonds, raisins, and paneer. The aroma of spices filling the kitchen and the anticipation of tasting his flavorful creation made every cooking session with him a cherished memory. Let me share with you his simple yet magical recipe!

 

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Recipe of Super Easy Vegetable Pulav

 

Portion Servings: 4-5
Preparation Time: 15 mins
Cooking Time: 30 mins

 

Ingredients:

 

• 2 tbsp Ghee
• 5-7 Cashew nuts
• 5-7 Almonds
• 5-7 Raisins
• 50g Paneer, diced
• 1/2 tsp Ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 tsp Vegetable masala
• 1 cup Basmati rice
• 2 cups Water
• 1 cup Milk
• 1/4 cup Green peas
• 1/4 cup Cauliflower florets
• 1/4 cup Carrot, diced
• 1/4 cup French beans (optional)
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 tsp Turmeric powder
• 1/4 tsp Red chili powder
• Whole spices: 2 Cardamom pods, 1-inch Cinnamon stick, 1 Bay leaf, 2-3 Cloves

 

 

Method:

 

1. Prepare Dry Fruits: Heat ghee in a pan, roast cashews, almonds, and raisins until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Fry Paneer: In the same pan, fry diced paneer until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare Spice Mix: In the same pan, add whole spices (cardamom, cinnamon, bay leaf, cloves), ginger-garlic paste, and vegetable masala. Sauté for a minute.
4. Add Vegetables: Add diced vegetables (green peas, cauliflower, carrot, and optional French beans). Sauté until slightly tender.
5. Cook Rice: Add basmati rice and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Then add water and milk. Bring to a boil.
6. Season: Add salt, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Stir well.
7. Simmer: Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is cooked and water is absorbed.
8. Garnish: Once rice is cooked, garnish with fried dry fruits and paneer.
9. Serve: Super Easy Vegetable Pulav is ready to be served hot.

 

Enjoy the flavorful and aromatic Super Easy Vegetable Pulav!

 

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About the Recipe

 

Super Easy Vegetable Pulav is a flavorful and wholesome rice dish loaded with a variety of vegetables and infused with aromatic spices. What sets this recipe apart is the addition of cashews, almonds, raisins, and paneer, which add a delightful crunch and sweetness to every bite. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave something delicious but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this Vegetable Pulav is sure to become a favorite in your household too.

 

 

Cooking Tips

 

1. Use Fresh Vegetables: Opt for fresh and seasonal vegetables to enhance the flavor of the pulav.
2. Pre-soak Rice: Soak the rice for at least 30 minutes before cooking to ensure each grain cooks evenly and remains fluffy.
3. Adjust Spice Level: Customize the spice level according to your preference by adjusting the amount of green chilies or red chili powder.
4. Variation: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables according to your taste preferences and availability.
5. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander or mint leaves on top before serving for a burst of freshness.

 

 

Pairing Guide

 

• Raita: Serve Vegetable Pulav with a side of cooling raita made with yogurt, cucumber, and spices.
• Pickle: Pair the pulav with your favorite pickle for an extra burst of flavor.
• Papad: Accompany the dish with crispy papads for added texture and crunch.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions about Super Easy Vegetable Pulav

 

1. What vegetables can I use in Vegetable Pulav?
   • You can use a variety of vegetables such as carrots, peas, beans, cauliflower, bell peppers, and potatoes.
2. Can I skip the nuts and paneer in the recipe?
   • Yes, you can omit the nuts and paneer if you prefer a nut-free or dairy-free version of the pulav.
3. Is Vegetable Pulav suitable for vegans?
   • Yes, you can make this recipe vegan-friendly by omitting the paneer and ensuring that the other ingredients used are vegan.
4. How do I prevent the rice from turning mushy?
   • To prevent the rice from turning mushy, ensure that you use the right ratio of water to rice and avoid overcooking.
5. Can I make Vegetable Pulav in a pressure cooker?
   • Yes, you can make Vegetable Pulav in a pressure cooker for a quicker cooking time. Follow the same steps but adjust the water accordingly.
6. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
   • Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but note that the cooking time and water ratio may vary.
7. How long does Vegetable Pulav last?
   • Vegetable Pulav can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat before serving.
8. Can I add more spices to the pulav?
   • Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. You can add more spices like garam masala or biryani masala for extra flavor.
9. What is the best type of rice to use for Vegetable Pulav?
   • Basmati rice is commonly used for Vegetable Pulav due to its fragrant aroma and long grains, but you can use any long-grain rice variety.
10. Can I make Vegetable Pulav without onions and garlic?
    • Yes, you can skip onions and garlic if you prefer or if you have dietary restrictions. Simply adjust the seasoning according to your taste.

 

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