Pulao, or pilaf, is a dish that resonates with flavor, comfort, and warmth. In this recipe, we elevate the classic pulao with green peas and mint, creating a refreshing yet hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish to complement a main meal, or a quick weeknight dinner, this Green Peas and Mint Pulao will become a favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Basmati rice (washed and soaked for 30 minutes)
- 1/2 cup fresh green peas (or frozen)
- 1 small onion (thinly sliced)
- 1-2 green chilies (slit)
- 2-3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1-inch piece of ginger (grated)
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves (chopped, reserve some for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- 2-3 cloves
- 1-2 cardamom pods
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp ghee or oil
- 1 tsp garam masala (optional)
- Salt to taste
- 1 1/2 cups water (or vegetable broth for extra flavor)
- Lemon juice (optional for extra tang)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice:
- Begin by washing the basmati rice thoroughly to remove excess starch. Soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain before cooking.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, cloves, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf. Sauté them until they release their fragrance (about 30 seconds).
- Add the sliced onions and cook until they turn golden brown. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
3. Add Garlic, Ginger, and Chilies:
- Once the onions are browned, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
4. Cook the Green Peas:
- Add the fresh or frozen green peas to the pan. Stir them in and cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the peas to absorb the flavors.
5. Incorporate Mint Leaves:
- Add the chopped mint leaves to the pan, giving them a quick stir. The mint will infuse the dish with a refreshing aroma.
6. Add Rice and Spices:
- Add the soaked and drained rice to the pan. Gently stir to mix with the spices and mint. Cook for a minute, ensuring the rice is coated well with the aromatic oil and spices.
7. Cook the Pulao:
- Pour in 1 1/2 cups of water (or vegetable broth for more flavor) and add salt to taste. If you like a more robust flavor, you can also add garam masala at this stage.
- Bring the water to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and all the water is absorbed.
8. Fluff the Pulao:
- Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains.
9. Serve and Garnish:
- Transfer the Green Peas and Mint Pulao to a serving dish. Garnish with a few fresh mint leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness.
Tips and Variations:
- Protein Boost: Add some paneer cubes or tofu for extra protein.
- Nuts and Dried Fruits: To add texture and richness, you can include a handful of cashews, almonds, or raisins. Lightly roast the nuts in ghee before adding them to the rice.
- Spicy Kick: If you prefer more heat, you can increase the number of green chilies or add red chili powder.
- Vegetable Addition: Feel free to mix in other veggies like carrots, peas, or beans for more variety.
Pairing Ideas:
- Curries: Green Peas and Mint Pulao pairs beautifully with rich, creamy curries like Paneer Butter Masala or Dal Makhani.
- Raita: A cooling cucumber or mint raita will balance the warmth of the spices.
- Grilled Meats or Tofu: Serve this pulao alongside grilled chicken, lamb, or a plant-based protein for a fulfilling meal.
Conclusion:
Green Peas and Mint Pulao is a versatile, aromatic dish that combines the earthiness of peas with the freshness of mint, making it both light and satisfying. It’s an ideal addition to your recipe repertoire, and with its vibrant colors and invigorating flavors, it’s sure to impress at your next gathering or family dinner.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Green Peas and Mint Pulao!
