Khar Pulao

Khar Pulao is a fragrant and wholesome rice dish from Assam, India, featuring a unique ingredient called 'khar' made from alkaline water filtered through the ashes of the edible plant, 'papaya' leaves. This gluten-free dish is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a perfect lunch option.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 1 cup
• Khar (alkaline water) - 2 cups
• Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans) - 1 cup, chopped
• Onion - 1 medium, thinly sliced
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Ginger - 1 inch, grated
• Green chili - 1, slit
• Turmeric powder - 1/2 teaspoon
• Cumin seeds - 1 teaspoon
• Bay leaf - 1
• Salt - to taste
• Oil (mustard or any cooking oil) - 2 tablespoons
• Fresh coriander - for garnish

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 heavy-bottomed pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and bay leaf, and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add sliced onions to the pot and sauté until golden brown, then add minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chili. Cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Stir in the mixed vegetables and turmeric powder. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
5. Add the drained basmati rice to the pot and gently mix it with the vegetables, cooking for 2-3 minutes to toast the rice slightly.
6. Pour in the khar (alkaline water), and add salt to taste. Bring it to a boil.
7. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
8. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 7 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in fiber and protein, promoting digestive health.
• Contains antioxidants from vegetables, supporting overall wellness.

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