Pulao Recipe (Indian Rice Pilaf) Indiaphile from indiaphile.info
Introduction
Indian cuisine is known for its rich and diverse flavors, and one of the most popular dishes is pilau rice. This dish is a staple in many Indian households and is often served at special occasions, such as weddings and festivals. Pilau rice is a fragrant and flavorful dish that is made by cooking basmati rice with aromatic spices, vegetables, and sometimes meat. In this article, we will share a traditional Indian pilau rice recipe that is easy to follow and will transport you to the exotic flavors of India.
Ingredients
To make Indian pilau rice, you will need the following ingredients:
2 cups of basmati rice
4 cups of water
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
1 teaspoon of coriander seeds
1 teaspoon of fennel seeds
1 cinnamon stick
3-4 cardamom pods
3-4 cloves
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1 teaspoon of salt
2 tablespoons of oil or ghee
Handful of fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
Now, let's move on to the instructions on how to make Indian pilau rice:
Wash the rice in cold water until the water runs clear, then soak the rice in cold water for at least 30 minutes.
While the rice is soaking, heat the oil or ghee in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the cumin seeds, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaf to the pot and fry for a few seconds until fragrant.
Add the chopped onion, garlic, and grated ginger to the pot and fry until the onion is soft and translucent, but not browned.
Add the turmeric powder and salt to the pot and stir well.
Drain the rice and add it to the pot. Stir well to coat the rice in the spice mixture.
Add the water to the pot and bring it to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water has been absorbed.
Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped cilantro.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition
One serving of Indian pilau rice (1 cup) contains approximately:
Calories: 200
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 3g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 400mg
Variations
Indian pilau rice is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. Here are some variations you can try:
Add vegetables such as peas, carrots, and bell peppers to the rice for extra flavor and nutrition.
Substitute the water with chicken or vegetable broth for a richer flavor.
Add cooked meat such as chicken or lamb to the rice for a complete meal.
Use different spices such as saffron or garam masala for a unique flavor.
Conclusion
Indian pilau rice is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its fragrant spices and fluffy texture, it is sure to impress your family and friends. So why not give this recipe a try and experience the exotic flavors of India in the comfort of your own home?