Get ready to transform your ordinary chicken dish into an extraordinary culinary masterpiece! This Indian-style Pulao is not just a side dish—it's a flavor explosion that will elevate your chicken stuffing to restaurant-quality heights. Imagine aromatic basmati rice infused with warm spices, tender vegetables, and a perfect balance of textures that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a home cook looking to impress or a food enthusiast seeking an authentic recipe, this Pulao stuffing is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 4 cups water
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup peas
- 1/4 cup carrots, diced
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain and set aside.
- Heat oil in a large heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant.
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown and translucent, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Incorporate chopped tomatoes, diced carrots, and peas into the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Sprinkle garam masala and salt over the vegetable mixture, stirring to distribute the spices evenly.
- Add the rinsed basmati rice to the pan and gently stir to coat the rice with oil and spices.
- Pour in 4 cups of water, ensuring all rice is submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer for 15-18 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the rice rest, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow steam to finish cooking.
- Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains before using as stuffing for chicken.
Tips
- Rice Rinsing is Crucial: Always rinse your basmati rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, ensuring each grain remains separate and fluffy.
- Spice Timing Matters: Add garam masala towards the end of vegetable sautéing to release its maximum flavor without burning.
- Water-to-Rice Ratio: Stick to the 2:1 water-to-rice ratio for perfectly cooked, non-sticky rice.
- Low and Slow Cooking: Use low heat and keep the lid tightly closed while simmering to trap steam and achieve even cooking.
- Resting is Key: Allow the rice to rest after cooking for 5 minutes—this helps redistribute moisture and makes the texture more uniform.
- Fluffing Technique: Use a fork to gently separate rice grains, preventing clumping and creating a light, airy texture perfect for stuffing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
