Hi Friends, I am excited to share a classic Indian Green Peas Pulav recipe that is as healthy as it is flavorful. Here we bring you delicious and easy-to-make recipes from the heart of India, perfect for your American kitchen. This dish is a staple in many Indian households and is loved for its simplicity and taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special side dish, this Green Peas Pulav Recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Know Your Green Peas Pulav
Green Peas Pulav, also known as Green Peas Pilaf or Green Peas Pulao, is a fragrant rice dish cooked with green peas, spices, and herbs. It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or as a side dish. The sweet green peas combined with aromatic spices make this dish a delightful addition to any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick: This Easy Green Peas Pulav can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
- Healthy: Packed with nutrients from green peas and made with minimal oil, it’s a wholesome and healthy choice.
- Versatile: It can be enjoyed as a main dish with a side of raita or as a side dish with curries and dals.
- Kid-Friendly: This Green Peas Pulav for Kids is mildly spiced and appealing to young palates.
Ingredients
To make the Best Green Peas Pulav, you’ll need the following:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1 cup fresh or frozen green peas
- 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 bay leaf
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 3-4 green cardamom pods
- 4-5 cloves
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 cups water
- Black Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/4 cup chopped carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers
How to Make Green Peas Pulav
Follow these simple steps to make authentic and delicious Green Peas Pulav:
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky. Soak the rice in water for about 20 minutes, then drain.
- Prepare the Spices: In a large pot or pan, heat the vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves. Sauté for a minute until the spices release their aroma.
- Sauté Onions and Aromatics: Add the thinly sliced onions and green chilies (if using) to the pot. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
- Add Vegetables: If you’re using additional vegetables like carrots and bell peppers, add them now and sauté for a couple of minutes. This step is optional but adds more color and nutrition to the dish.
- Add the Peas and Rice: Add the green peas and the drained rice to the pot. Stir gently to combine and coat the rice with the spices and oil.
- Cook the Rice: Add 2 cups of water and salt to taste. Stir once and bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
- Fluff and Serve: Once cooked, turn off the heat and let the rice sit for a few minutes with the lid on. Fluff the rice gently with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve: Serve the Green Peas Pulav hot as a main dish with raita or as a side dish with your favorite curry or dal.
Tips for the Best Green Peas Pulav
- Quality Rice: Use high-quality basmati rice for the best results. The long grains and fragrant aroma make a significant difference.
- Proper Rinsing: Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, which helps in achieving fluffy rice.
- Don’t Over-stir: Once you add the water, avoid stirring the rice too much, as this can break the grains and make the rice mushy.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the rice to rest after cooking helps in firming up the grains and enhancing the texture.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Vegan Green Peas Pulav
To make this dish vegan, simply use vegetable oil instead of ghee. This Vegan Green Peas Pulav is just as flavorful and delicious.
Green Peas Pulav for Curry
Serve this pulav with a rich and creamy curry for a complete meal. The mild flavors of the pulav complement the bold and spicy flavors of Indian curries beautifully.
Healthy Green Peas Pulav
For a healthier version, use brown basmati rice instead of white. Adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook. You can also add more vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or zucchini to increase the nutritional value.
Green Peas Pulav for Kids
To make this dish more appealing to kids, you can add a handful of sweet corn or chopped paneer. Reduce the spices to suit their taste.
Quick Green Peas Pulav
If you’re in a hurry, you can use a rice cooker or an Instant Pot to make Green Peas Pulav. Simply follow the same steps and adjust the water quantity as per the appliance instructions.
Traditional Green Peas Pulav Recipe
This Traditional Green Peas Pulav Recipe stays true to its roots, using simple ingredients and straightforward methods to deliver an authentic taste.
Conclusion
Green Peas Pulav is a timeless dish that’s beloved in Indian cuisine. Its simplicity, combined with its aromatic and flavorful profile, makes it a perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re preparing a lavish Indian feast or a quick weeknight dinner, this Green Peas Pulav Recipe will never disappoint.
Try this Easy Green Peas Pulav Recipe today and experience the classic flavors of Indian cuisine in your home. For more delicious recipes and cooking tips, stay tuned to our blog. Share your experiences and let us know how you enjoyed this dish in the comments below!
Thank you for joining us on this culinary journey. Remember, America’s best is yet to come with more tasty food of India, right here on our blog. From vegetarian meals delivered to classic Indian recipes, we’ve got you covered. Happy cooking!