Matar Pulao is a simple, fragrant rice dish made with basmati rice, green peas, and aromatic spices. It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a side or a light main meal, and it pairs perfectly with curries, yogurt, or chutneys.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cinnamon stick (about 1 inch)
- 2-3 cloves
- 2-3 green cardamom pods
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 cups water (or vegetable/chicken broth for more flavor)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Rinse and soak the rice:
- Rinse the basmati rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for about 20-30 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté the spices and onions:
- Heat the ghee or oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cloves, and cardamom pods. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the spices release their fragrance.
- Cook the onions:
- Add the sliced onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute.
- Add the peas and rice:
- Add the green peas to the pan and stir for a minute. Then add the drained basmati rice and gently stir to coat the rice with the spices and oil.
- Cook the rice:
- Pour in the water or broth, season with salt, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water is fully absorbed. Do not lift the lid while the rice is cooking.
- Fluff and serve:
- After the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Serve Matar Pulao with curries, yogurt, or as a side dish for any Indian meal. Enjoy this fragrant and flavorful rice dish that complements a variety of main dishes!
