Plain Pilau
Discover the simplicity and aromatic allure of Plain Pilau, a classic dish that transforms humble ingredients into a flavorful masterpiece. Featuring fragrant basmati rice infused with warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and a touch of garlic, this one-pot rice recipe is a cornerstone of countless cuisines. The slow sautéing of onions brings richness to the dish, while the gentle simmering ensures perfectly fluffy grains every time. Ideal as a stand-alone side or a versatile base for curries, roasted meats, or steamed vegetables, this pilau is as effortless as it is satisfying. Ready in just 35 minutes and perfect for beginner cooks, it’s a go-to recipe for any occasion.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Basmati rice
- 4 cups Water
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil or ghee
- 1 medium Onion, finely sliced
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 piece Cinnamon stick
- 3 pieces Cardamom pods
- 4 pieces Cloves
- 1 piece Bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under 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 large pot over medium heat.
Add the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaf to the pot. Sauté the spices for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the sliced onion to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are golden brown.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Add the drained basmati rice to the pot and stir well to coat the grains in the spice mixture.
Pour in the water and add the salt. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
Let simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the water has been absorbed.
Turn off the heat and let the pilau rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
812 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 30.0 g | 38% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.6 g | 23% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2421 mg | 105% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 121.7 g | 44% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.2 g | 29% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.1 g | ||
| Protein | 16.4 g | 33% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 219 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 7.7 mg | 43% | |
| Potassium | 423 mg | 9% | |
*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.
