Elevate your dinner table with the fragrant and flavorful Indian Pilau Rice, a classic side dish bursting with the vibrant essence of traditional spices. This recipe combines aromatic basmati rice with warm notes of cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom, beautifully complemented by golden sautéed onions and a touch of turmeric for its signature hue. Sweet peas add a pop of freshness, while a garnish of chopped cilantro brings a bright, herbaceous finish. Perfectly steamed and infused with layers of spice, this pilau rice pairs effortlessly with curries, grilled meats, or vegetables, making it an irresistible accompaniment to any Indian-inspired feast. Ready in just 35 minutes, it's a simple yet impressive way to bring authentic flavors to your table.
Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly in cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 20 minutes, then drain and set aside.
Heat the vegetable oil or ghee in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the cinnamon stick, cloves, green cardamom pods, bay leaf, and cumin seeds. Stir and cook for about 30 seconds until the spices release their aroma.
Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn.
Add the peas, turmeric powder, and salt, mixing well.
Gently fold in the drained rice, ensuring the grains are coated evenly with the spices.
Pour in 2 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes.
Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for another 5 minutes to allow the steam to finish cooking the rice.
Fluff the rice gently with a fork and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Calories |
647 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 30.3 g | 39% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.4 g | 22% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2454 mg | 107% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 84.5 g | 31% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.9 g | 42% | |
| Total Sugars | 9.9 g | ||
| Protein | 14.2 g | 28% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 221 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 8.3 mg | 46% | |
| Potassium | 636 mg | 14% | |
*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.