Notifications x
X
History
all results for ""

Easy Vegan Pulao With Whole Spices And Garden Veggies

Verification badge
share

This vegan pulao is one of those simple dishes that still tastes special because of the whole spices and the mix of vegetables. It is cooked with just a little oil, basmati rice, and whatever garden vegetables are on hand, making it both light and filling. The spices are not ground but used whole, so every bite has its own warmth and fragrance. You can make it for a weekday meal, or even for a small family get-together, because it comes together in one pot without much effort.

prep time 00 Hour 10 Mins
cook time 00 Hour 20 Mins
chef Team Kitchen Diaries

Pulao has been a regular in many Indian homes, and this vegan version keeps it fuss-free while still giving full flavour. The whole spices like cardamom, cinnamon, bay leaf and cumin release their aroma as soon as they hit the oil, and then the rice cooks gently with the vegetables in that flavoured steam. The dish does not need a heavy masala or too many steps, which is why it suits busy days when there is no time for a long recipe but you still want something proper.

Garden vegetables like beans, carrots, peas and cauliflower give colour and some crunch, while the rice stays soft and fluffy. The fragrance of spices makes it inviting even before serving, and the best part is you can adjust the vegetables depending on the season or what you have in the fridge. It is filling enough on its own, but it also works well with a simple raita, dal, or even just plain pickle on the side.

Because the recipe is vegan, there is no butter or ghee, only a small spoon of oil, which keeps it light yet

Read More
Step 1

 Heat oil in a heavy-bottom pan or pressure cooker. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. Let them sizzle for a few seconds.

Step 2

Add the sliced onion and green chillies. Fry until onions turn soft and lightly golden.

Step 3

Add the mixed vegetables. Sauté for 2–3 minutes so they pick up the spice aroma.

Step 4

Add soaked and drained rice, stir gently without breaking the grains. Add salt.

Step 5

 Pour in water, mix once, and let it come to a boil.

Step 6

 Cover and cook on low flame until rice is fluffy and all the water is absorbed. Rest for 5 minutes before opening.

Step 7

Garnish with fresh coriander and serve warm.

Tips and Tricks

  1. For stronger flavour, add a star anise or black cardamom with the whole spices. These give a sweet depth and make the pulao more fragrant.

  2. If using a pressure cooker, cook for 2 whistles and let the steam release naturally. Opening early can make the rice clump together.

  3. You can replace basmati with sona masoori or other rice, just adjust the water ratio. Some varieties may need slightly more soaking time.

  4. Frozen vegetables also work when fresh ones are not available. Just add them directly without thawing so they don’t go mushy.

      5. A squeeze of lemon before serving makes the pulao brighter in taste. Fried onions or roasted cashews                on top are also a nice touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare it without onions. The vegetables and spices still give flavour, and carrots or peas add a little sweetness.

 Yes, but it takes longer to cook. Increase the water and soaking time so the grains don’t stay hard in the middle

Soak the rice before cooking and avoid stirring once the water is added. Washing till the water runs clear also helps remove excess starch.

Yes, you can cook it ahead and reheat, but sprinkle a little water before reheating to keep it soft. Covering it while reheating keeps the steam in.

 It pairs well with plain dal, vegan raita made with plant yoghurt, or just pickle and papad. On special days, a curry makes it a fuller meal.

Prestige Must-haves