Matar Pulao Recipe Tips

Matar Pulao Recipe Fragrant and Flavorful Peas Pulao

Matar Pulao, also known as Peas Pulao, is a simple yet aromatic rice dish made with basmati rice, green peas and fragrant whole spices. It's a perfect one pot meal that pairs well with raita, curry or dal. This dish is popular in Indian and Pakistani cuisine and is often made for everyday meals or special occasions.

Ingredients:

For Cooking Rice,

. 1 cup basmati rice (soaked for 20-30 minutes)

. 2 cups water

. 1 cups fresh or frozen green peas

. 2 tbsp ghee or oil

. 1 small onion (thinly sliced)

. 1 green chili (salt, Optional)

. 1 bay leaf

. 1 cinnamon stick

. 2-3 green cardamoms

. 3-4 cloves

. 1 tbsp cumin seeds

. 1/2 tbsp salt (adjust to taste)

. 1/2 tbsp garam masala (optional)

For Garnishing:

. Fresh coriander leaves (chopped)

. Fried onion (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1 : Prepare the Rice

. Wash the basmati rice under running water until the water runs clear. Soak it for 20-30 minutes, then drain ands set aside

Step 2 : Saute the Spices and Onions

. Heat ghee or oil in heavy bottomed pan or pressure cooker

. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then, add bay leaf, cinnamon stick, green cardamoms and cloves. Saute for a few seconds until aromatic

. Add sliced onion and saute until they turn golden brown

Step 3 : Cook the Pulao

. Add green chilies and green peas, Saute for 1-2 minutes

. Add the drained rice and gently stir for a minutes to coat the grains with spices

. Pour in water, add salt and bring to a boil

. Cover and cook on low heat until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender (about 10-12 minutes). If using a pressure cooker, cook for one whistle and let the pressure release naturally

Step 4 : Fluff and Serve

. Once cooked, turn off the heat and let the pulao rest for a few minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork

. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and fried onion

Serving Suggestions:

. Serve hot with cucumber raita, yogurt or a side of dal

. Pair with curries like paneer butter masala, chicken curry or chana masala

. Enjoy with a squeeze of lemon for added freshness

Tips for the Best Matar Pulao:

. Use aged basmati rice for fluffy, non sticky grains

. Adjust the spices to your prefernce for a milder or spicier taste

. If using frozen peas, rinse them in warm water before adding to the pulao

. To enhance the aroma, add a few drops of kewra water or a pinch of saffron

Enjoy Matar Pulao is a quick and delicious dish that can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy day or a festive meal!