Elevate your mealtime with this wholesome and flavorful Sugar-Free Vegetable Pilau—a healthier twist on a beloved classic! This vibrant dish combines fluffy basmati rice, a medley of fresh vegetables like carrots, green beans, and peas, and an aromatic blend of whole spices including cumin, cardamom, and cinnamon. It's naturally sugar-free and packed with comforting flavors, making it perfect for health-conscious food lovers or anyone seeking a lighter yet satisfying meal. Ready in just 45 minutes, this one-pot recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. Serve it as a standalone dish, or pair it with yogurt or a crisp green salad for a complete, nutritious feast.
Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in enough water to cover it for 20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, green cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaf. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the sliced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Stir in the minced ginger and garlic, and sauté for another 1-2 minutes.
Mix in the diced carrot, chopped green beans, and green peas. Stir to combine, and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Sprinkle the coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt over the vegetables, and mix well.
Add the soaked and drained basmati rice to the pot. Gently stir the rice with the vegetables and spices to coat the grains evenly.
Pour the 3 cups of water into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and let the pilau simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed.
Turn off the heat and let the pilau rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy your sugar-free vegetable pilau as a standalone dish or with a side of yogurt or salad!
Calories |
854 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 32.2 g | 41% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.3 g | 26% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2470 mg | 107% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 126.7 g | 46% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.0 g | 71% | |
| Total Sugars | 16.7 g | ||
| Protein | 21.1 g | 42% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 330 mg | 25% | |
| Iron | 12.4 mg | 69% | |
| Potassium | 1156 mg | 25% | |
*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.