🧾 Introduction
Veg Pulao is a fragrant, colorful rice dish made with basmati rice, mixed vegetables, and aromatic spices. Paired with cool and refreshing cucumber raita, this one-pot meal is not only quick to make but also nutritious and satisfying—perfect for lunch or a light dinner. This dish brings together the comforting flavors of Indian cuisine and is ideal for busy weekdays or festive lunches.
🍽️ Prep Time, Cook Time, Servings
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 mins | 25 mins | 40 mins | 3–4 servings |
📝 Ingredients
For Veg Pulao:
- 1 cup basmati rice (soaked for 15 mins)
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- 1 bay leaf
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 2–3 cloves
- 2 green cardamoms
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 onion (sliced)
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 cup chopped mixed vegetables (carrot, beans, peas, capsicum, potato)
- 2 green chilies (slit)
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 2 cups water
- Fresh coriander for garnish
For Cucumber Raita:
- 1 cup curd (yogurt)
- ½ cucumber (grated or finely chopped)
- ¼ tsp roasted cumin powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander or mint (optional)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Soak and prep rice
Rinse basmati rice thoroughly and soak it for 15 minutes. Drain and keep aside.
Step 2: Sauté spices and onions
In a pot, heat oil or ghee. Add bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, cardamoms, and cumin seeds. Let them crackle. Add sliced onions and sauté until golden.
Step 3: Add ginger-garlic paste and veggies
Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1 minute. Then add chopped vegetables and green chilies. Sauté for 2–3 minutes.
Step 4: Add rice and water
Add soaked rice and 2 cups water. Add salt and mix gently. Cover and cook on low-medium heat for 12–15 minutes or until rice is cooked and water is absorbed.
Step 5: Fluff and garnish
Once done, let it sit for 5 mins. Fluff with a fork and garnish with coriander leaves.
Step 6: Prepare cucumber raita
In a bowl, whisk the curd. Add grated cucumber, roasted cumin powder, and salt. Mix well and garnish with coriander or mint.
Step 7: Serve together
Serve hot Veg Pulao with chilled cucumber raita for a balanced and delicious meal.
🥄 Optional Side Dishes
- Papad
- Pickle
- Salad with lemon
🔍 Nutrition Table (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~280 kcal |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 5g |
⚠️ Nutrition Note/Warning
- Contains dairy (curd) – substitute with vegan yogurt if needed.
- Reduce green chili for kids or spice-sensitive eaters.
- Add paneer or tofu to boost protein content.