Easy Vegetable Pulao

Steps

1. 1.

   1.

   Rinse And Soak The Rice** Rinse basmati under cold water until it runs mostly clear. Soak 15–20 minutes. Drain well. Soaking shortens cook time and helps grains stay long.

2. 2.

   Bloom Whole Spices

   Heat ghee in a heavy pot over medium. Add bay leaf, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, and cumin seeds. Stir 30–45 seconds until cumin darkens a shade and smells toasty.

3. 3.

   Soften Onion And Veg

   Add sliced onion. Cook 4–5 minutes until soft and edges start to color. Stir in carrot, green beans, peas, and potato if using. Cook 2–3 minutes.

4. 4.

   Add Rice And Water

   Add drained rice. Stir gently 1 minute so grains get coated. Pour in water and salt. Bring to a boil. Taste the water; it should taste lightly seasoned.

5. 5.

   Steam Easy Vegetable Pulao

   Cover tightly. Drop heat to low. Cook 15 minutes without lifting the lid. Turn off heat. Rest covered 10 minutes. Do not skip resting. Steam finishes the centers.

6. 6.

   Fluff And Serve

   Open the lid. Fluff with a fork. Sprinkle garam masala if you like. Fish out the bay leaf and cinnamon if you spot them. Serve with raita or plain yogurt.