When it comes to wholesome, healthy and delicious meals, few dishes can match the appeal of a good pulao. And when it comes to using alternative grains to make a truly unique and flavourful pulao, few options are as enticing as quinoa.
Yes, you heard that right - quinoa pulao! This ancient grain has taken the world by storm in recent years, thanks to its numerous health benefits and versatility in the kitchen. And when it comes to using it in a traditional Indian dish like pulao, the results can be truly remarkable.
So if you're looking for a healthy yet flavourful twist on the classic pulao recipe, look no further than this quinoa pulao recipe. Trust me, once you try it, you won't want to go back to plain old rice again!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 2-3 green cardamom pods
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 cloves
- 1 bay leaf
- 1-2 green chilies, chopped (optional)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell pepper, etc.), chopped
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- Salt, to taste
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- Handful of chopped cilantro, for garnish
Method:
- Heat oil or ghee in a pan or pot over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and bay leaf. Stir for a minute until fragrant.
- Add chopped onions and green chillies, if using. Sauté until onions turn golden brown.
- Add mixed vegetables and ginger-garlic paste. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Add quinoa, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well to combine.
- Pour in water or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until all the water is absorbed and the quinoa is cooked.
- Turn off the heat and let the pulao sit covered for 5-10 minutes to absorb any remaining moisture.
- Fluff the quinoa pulao with a fork and transfer it to a serving dish.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with raita, yoghurt or any side dish of your choice.