Matar Pulao

Matar Pulao Recipe - Vegetarian Indian Rice Dish

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Matar Pulao is a delicious and aromatic rice dish that is popular in Indian cuisine. Made with basmati rice, peas, and a blend of spices, this dish is perfect for a comforting meal.

History

Matar Pulao has been a staple in Indian households for generations. It is a simple and flavorful dish that is often served during special occasions and festivals.

Ingredients

2 cups basmati rice
1 cup frozen peas
4 cups water
1 small onion, thinly sliced
5 – 6 cloves
5 – 6 black peppercorns
1 – 2 bay leaves
1 tsp cumin seeds
salt, to taste
a pinch of saffron, mixed in 2 tbsp water
1 tbsp cooking oil

How to prepare

Heat oil in a non-stick pan and sauté cumin seeds and sliced onions until they are tender and slightly browned.
Add rice, water, salt, peppercorns, cloves, and bay leaves. Cover and cook on medium-low heat until the rice is tender.
Add peas and saffron water. Cover and cook for another 5 – 6 minutes until the peas are heated through.
This dish is best enjoyed warm, either with any curry or on its own!

Variations

Add diced carrots or bell peppers for added color and flavor.
Use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer taste.
Add a handful of cashews or raisins for a touch of sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Rinse the basmati rice before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent the rice from becoming sticky.

- Use frozen peas for convenience, but you can also use fresh peas if they are in season.

- Toasting the whole spices before adding the rice will enhance the flavor of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Matar Pulao can be served with raita, yogurt, or any curry of your choice.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making perfect Matar Pulao is to cook the rice on low heat and let it steam until it is fully cooked.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute green beans or corn for peas if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

Matar Pulao can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Matar Pulao with fresh cilantro leaves or fried onions for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Matar Pulao pairs well with any curry, dal, or grilled meat dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Matar Pulao in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Matar Pulao contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Matar Pulao contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Matar Pulao contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Matar Pulao contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Matar Pulao is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and iron.

Alergens

Matar Pulao is gluten-free and nut-free. However, it may contain traces of soy if soy oil is used for cooking.

Summary

Matar Pulao is a nutritious and balanced meal that is rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Matar Pulao is a flavorful and aromatic rice dish that is perfect for a comforting meal. With a blend of spices and peas, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a simple dish, yet the flavors seemed to dance together in perfect harmony. I knew I had to learn how to make it.

I first came across the recipe for Matar Pulao when I was visiting my friend in India. She was a fantastic cook and always had the most amazing dishes prepared for us. One day, she invited me into her kitchen to watch her make this delicious rice dish.

As I watched her deftly mix the spices and sauté the onions and peas, I knew I had to try making it myself. My friend patiently explained each step to me, and I eagerly took notes, determined to recreate this flavorful dish in my own kitchen.

When I returned home, I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work. The aroma of the spices as they toasted in the pan was intoxicating, and I felt a sense of accomplishment as I added the rice and peas to the mix.

As the pulao simmered on the stove, I could hardly wait to taste the final result. When I finally took my first bite, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. The flavors reminded me of my time in India, of the warmth and generosity of my friend.

From that day on, Matar Pulao became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and any time I wanted to transport myself back to that kitchen in India.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe to suit my own tastes. I have added a dash of cumin here, a sprinkle of garam masala there. Each time I make it, I feel like I am adding a piece of myself to the dish, making it truly my own.

I have shared the recipe with many friends and family members, all of whom have fallen in love with its simplicity and depth of flavor. It has become a dish that brings people together, that evokes memories of shared meals and laughter.

I like to think of Matar Pulao as a bridge between cultures, a way to connect with others through the universal language of food. It is a dish that transcends borders and brings people together, no matter where they come from.

As I sit here in my kitchen, stirring a pot of fragrant Matar Pulao, I am reminded of all the places and people who have influenced my cooking over the years. Each recipe I have learned, each dish I have perfected, is a testament to the love and passion I have for food.

And so, I will continue to cook and experiment and share my recipes with anyone who is willing to listen. For me, cooking is not just a task, but a way of expressing myself, of connecting with others, of creating memories that will last a lifetime.

And so, dear reader, I encourage you to try making Matar Pulao yourself. Let its flavors transport you to far-off lands, to memories of shared meals and laughter. And who knows, perhaps you will be inspired to create your own culinary masterpiece, just as I have.