Pulao Recipe Without Onion and Garlic: Simple, Flavorful Feast

Discover the magic of Pulao, a classic Indian rice dish, with this unique Pulao Recipe without Onion and Garlic. While pulao traditionally uses these aromatics for flavor, this version is tailored for those following a Sattvic diet or for anyone looking for a lighter, yet flavorsome alternative. Here’s how you can enjoy this delightful dish in a new avatar.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water (or vegetable stock for added flavor)
• 1 carrot, diced
• ¹⁄₄ cup peas
• ¹⁄₄ cup finely chopped French beans
• 2 tablespoons cashew nuts
• 1 tablespoon ginger, finely grated
• 2 green chilies, slit
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon cumin seeds
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon garam masala
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon coriander powder
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 3 tablespoons ghee or olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Preparation

1. Rinse and Soak Rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes, then drain.
2. Vegetable Preparation: While the rice soaks, chop your vegetables finely to ensure they cook evenly with the rice.

Cooking Process

1. Heat Ghee: In a heavy-bottomed pan or a pot with a lid, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle.
2. Sauté Ginger and Chilies: Add ginger and green chilies, sauté for a minute until they turn fragrant.
3. Add Veggies: Stir in the vegetables (except peas) and sauté until slightly tender.
4. Spice it Up: Add garam masala, coriander powder, and turmeric. Stir well to coat the vegetables with spices.
5. Toast Cashews: Add cashew nuts, and toast them until they turn golden. This adds a subtle crunch to your pulao.
6. Cook the Rice: Add the drained rice to the pot. Stir gently to mix everything together, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors.
7. Add Liquid: Pour in the water or vegetable stock. Add salt according to taste. Bring to a boil.
8. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce heat to the lowest setting, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and liquid is absorbed.
9. Rest and Fluff: After cooking, let the pulao rest for 5 minutes covered, then fluff it with a fork to separate the grains.
10. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for added flavor and color.

💡 Note: Adjust the amount of green chilies according to your heat preference.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy this pulao hot with a side of cucumber raita or a simple cucumber salad.
• Pair it with a bowl of daal or yogurt for a complete meal.
• It’s also perfect for potlucks or dinner parties, as it’s both a crowd-pleaser and satiates a variety of dietary preferences.

Variations

If you’re looking to mix things up:

• Add dried fruits like raisins or apricots for a sweet twist.
• Include paneer or tofu cubes for a protein boost.
• Experiment with different herbs like mint or lemon zest for a fresh variation.

💡 Note: Always soak rice before cooking pulao for better results. This ensures each grain cooks evenly and fluffily.

Wrapping Up

The beauty of this no-onion, no-garlic Pulao recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmonious blend of spices and vegetables, creating a light yet satisfying dish. It’s proof that traditional recipes can be adapted to meet dietary needs or personal preferences without losing their essence. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a Sattvic meal, exploring Indian cuisine, or simply seeking a delicious, aromatic rice dish, this Pulao recipe without onion and garlic will not disappoint.

Can I use brown rice for this pulao recipe?

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Yes, you can. However, cooking time and water proportions might differ. Brown rice usually requires more water and a longer cooking time. Adjust accordingly.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

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Yes, simply replace ghee with olive oil or any vegan-friendly oil to make it vegan.

How can I make this pulao less spicy?

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Reduce or omit the green chilies. You can also substitute them with a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a milder heat.

Can I cook this pulao in a rice cooker?

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Yes, you can. Follow the same steps until adding the rice, then transfer everything to the rice cooker, add the liquid, and cook as per your rice cooker’s instructions.