Savor the vibrant flavors of this Dairy-Free Vegetable Pulav, a wholesome and aromatic one-pot rice dish that's perfect for a hearty, plant-based meal! Featuring fragrant basmati rice, a rainbow of fresh vegetables like carrots, peas, and cauliflower, and a medley of warming spices such as cumin, cinnamon, and cardamom, this recipe promises layers of rich flavor without the dairy. Prepared in just 30 minutes, itβs a quick and satisfying option for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Garnished with zesty lemon juice and fresh cilantro, this pulav is delicious on its own or paired with a vegan yogurt side or refreshing salad. Ideal for vegan diets, dairy-free cooking, and rice enthusiasts, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between taste, nutrition, and simplicity.
Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly in cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in cold water for 20 minutes, then drain and set aside.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
Add the cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, bay leaf, cloves, and green cardamom pods. SautΓ© for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the thinly sliced onion and cook, stirring, until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Mix in the ginger-garlic paste and sautΓ© for 1 minute until the raw smell dissipates.
Add the diced carrot, green beans, green peas, and cauliflower florets. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the turmeric powder, ground coriander, ground cumin, and salt. Mix well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
Add the drained basmati rice to the pot and gently stir to combine with the vegetables and spices.
Pour in the 3 cups of water and increase the heat to high. Wait for the water to come to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water is fully absorbed.
Turn off the heat and let the pulav sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Fluff the pulav gently with a fork, garnish with fresh cilantro, and drizzle with lemon juice before serving.
Serve hot as a standalone dish or paired with a plant-based yogurt or salad.
Calories |
955 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 43.9 g | 56% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.5 g | 32% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 25.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 3667 mg | 159% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 129.4 g | 47% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.4 g | 69% | |
| Total Sugars | 16.5 g | ||
| Protein | 21.5 g | 43% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 331 mg | 25% | |
| Iron | 13.5 mg | 75% | |
| Potassium | 1292 mg | 27% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.