Biryani Pulao

Biryani Pulao is a fragrant and colorful rice dish infused with aromatic spices, tender veggies, and a hint of saffron, making it a delightful and healthy option for lunch. This dish combines the richness of biryani with the simplicity of pulao, perfect for a nourishing meal.

Biryani Pulao
40 minutes
Difficulty: Medium
Indian
350 kcal

Ingredients

  • Basmati rice - 1 cup
  • Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans) - 1 cup
  • Onion - 1 medium, thinly sliced
  • Tomato - 1 medium, chopped
  • Ginger-garlic paste - 1 teaspoon
  • Green chili - 1, slit
  • Biryani masala - 1 tablespoon
  • Turmeric powder - 1/2 teaspoon
  • Cumin seeds - 1 teaspoon
  • Bay leaf - 1
  • Cinnamon stick - 1 inch
  • Cloves - 2
  • Cardamom - 2
  • Fresh coriander leaves - for garnish
  • Saffron strands - a pinch (optional)
  • Salt - to taste
  • Water - 2 cups
  • Olive oil - 1 tablespoon

Steps

  1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
  2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. Sauté until fragrant.
  3. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chili, cooking for another minute.
  4. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften. Then add the mixed vegetables, biryani masala, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well to combine.
  5. Add the soaked and drained rice to the pot. Gently mix the rice with the vegetables and spices, ensuring not to break the rice grains.
  6. Pour in the water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
  7. If using saffron, dissolve it in a tablespoon of warm water and drizzle it over the cooked rice just before serving.
  8. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Carbs: 58 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
  • Total Fat: 6 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

  • Rich in vitamins and minerals from mixed vegetables.
  • Low in saturated fat and cholesterol, supporting heart health.

Tags

IndianHealthyLunch