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Quinoa Pulao – A Light, Nutritious One-Pot Meal

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This Quinoa Pulao is a wholesome Indian-style one-pot dish where fluffy quinoa is cooked with assorted vegetables and aromatic spices. It’s a lighter, high-protein alternative to traditional rice pulao, perfect for a quick, healthy lunch or dinner.

prep time 15 Mins
cook time 20 Mins
chef Ankita Singh
Quinoa Pulao

Quinoa Pulao offers all the comfort and flavor of a traditional vegetable pulao but with the added nutritional boost of quinoa. Known for being rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals, quinoa makes an excellent rice substitute for those looking to eat lighter or follow a gluten-free diet.

 

The recipe starts with gently sautéing whole spices in ghee for a warm, aromatic base, followed by onions, ginger, garlic, and green chilies for depth. Fresh seasonal vegetables like carrots, beans, peas, cauliflower, and potatoes are added for texture and nutrients. Finally, quinoa is simmered with garam masala and a hint of lime juice for brightness.

 

This dish is ideal for busy weekdays because it cooks quickly and doesn’t require elaborate preparation. It pairs beautifully with cooling cucumber raita, plain yogurt, or a fresh salad. Leftovers also reheat well, making it a good meal-prep option.

Step 1

Prepare Quinoa

 

Place quinoa in a fine mesh strainer and rinse thoroughly under running water for 2–3 minutes to remove its natural bitterness. Drain well.

 

Preparing Quinoa
Step 1

Build the Flavor Base

 

Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat.

 

Add cumin seeds, cloves, cinnamon, black cardamoms, green cardamoms, peppercorns, and bay leaves. Sauté for 3–4 seconds until aromatic.

 

Add onions and cook until lightly browned (about 5 minutes).

 

Add ginger, garlic, and green chilies; sauté for 1 minute.

Adding Onions and Other Ingredients
Step 3

 Add Vegetables & Quinoa

 

Stir in carrot, beans, cauliflower, peas, and potato; cook for 1–2 minutes.

 

Add rinsed quinoa and stir gently to combine with vegetables and spices.

Adding Vegetables
Step 4

 Cook the Pulao

 

Add water, salt, garam masala powder, and lime juice. Mix well.

 

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4

Rest & Serve

 

Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before fluffing gently with a fork.

 

Serve hot with raita or plain yogurt.

 

Served Quinoa

Tips and Tricks

 

  1. Rinse well – Washing quinoa thoroughly removes bitterness from its natural saponin coating.

 

  1. Use fresh vegetables – Firm vegetables like beans and carrots hold shape better during cooking.

 

  1. Extra protein boost – Add boiled chickpeas or paneer cubes at the end for a more filling meal.

 

  1. Citrus touch – Add lime juice just before serving for a fresh zing.

 

  1. Make it vegan – Replace ghee with coconut oil or olive oil.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, pressure cook on low flame for 1 whistle using 1¾ cups of water instead of 2 cups.

Yes, you can replace them with zucchini or bell peppers for a lighter version.

Quinoa has more protein and fiber than white rice and a lower glycemic index, making it a good choice for blood sugar management.

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