Vegetable Pulao Desi Handi Style | Yummy Pakistani Cooking Recipe | Wow Mamma Kitchen

Introduction

Vegetable Pulao, also known as Pilaf, is a beloved dish across South Asia, celebrated for its aromatic spices, colorful vegetables, and fluffy rice. Cooking this dish in a traditional clay pot, or handi, adds a unique depth of flavor, making it even more special. In this article, we’ll delve into an authentic recipe for Vegetable Pulao cooked Desi Handi style. This method of preparation not only honors traditional culinary techniques but also infuses the dish with a distinct, earthy taste that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For a perfect Vegetable Pulao, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups Basmati rice
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, green beans, potatoes, cauliflower)
• 1/2 cup yogurt
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 3 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) or vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cloves
• 4 green cardamom pods
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 4 cups water
• Lemon wedges and additional cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice

Start by washing the Basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes. This helps the rice grains to expand and cook evenly.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

While the rice is soaking, prepare the vegetables. Dice the carrots, potatoes, and green beans into small, uniform pieces. Chop the cauliflower into small florets. This ensures that all the vegetables cook evenly.

3. Heat the Handi

Place a traditional clay handi or a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the ghee or vegetable oil and let it melt and heat up. The use of a handi is essential for achieving the authentic Desi flavor, as the clay imparts a unique taste to the dish.

4. Sauté the Spices

Once the ghee is hot, add the cumin seeds, bay leaf, cloves, cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick. Sauté for a minute until the spices release their fragrant aroma. This step is crucial for infusing the oil with the rich flavors of the whole spices.

5. Add Onions and Ginger-Garlic Paste

Add the thinly sliced onions to the handi and sauté until they turn golden brown. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure even browning. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another 2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.

6. Add Tomatoes and Green Chilies

Add the chopped tomatoes and slit green chilies to the handi. Cook until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, about 5 minutes. This creates a flavorful base for the pulao.

7. Incorporate Vegetables and Spices

Add the mixed vegetables to the handi and stir well to combine. Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix thoroughly to coat the vegetables with the spices. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

8. Add Yogurt and Herbs

Stir in the yogurt, chopped cilantro, and mint leaves. The yogurt adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor, while the fresh herbs contribute a burst of freshness. Cook for a few more minutes until everything is well combined.

9. Add Rice and Water

Drain the soaked rice and add it to the handi. Gently mix the rice with the vegetable and spice mixture, ensuring that the rice grains are well coated. Add the water and bring it to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the handi with a tight-fitting lid, and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time to allow the rice to steam properly.

10. Fluff and Garnish

After 25 minutes, turn off the heat and let the pulao sit for another 5-10 minutes. This resting time allows the rice to absorb any remaining moisture. Gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lemon wedges before serving.

Tips for Success

1. Soaking the Rice: Soaking Basmati rice helps it cook evenly and results in longer, fluffier grains.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs significantly enhance the flavor of the pulao.
3. Temperature Control: Cook the pulao on low heat after adding the rice and water to prevent the bottom from burning and ensure even cooking.
4. Resting Time: Allow the pulao to rest after cooking to let the flavors meld together and the rice to set properly.
5. Handi Cooking: If you don’t have a clay handi, you can use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. However, the handi imparts a unique earthy flavor that’s hard to replicate with other cookware.

Variations

1. Protein Addition: Add paneer cubes or tofu for a vegetarian protein boost. For a non-vegetarian version, you can add cooked chicken or lamb.
2. Nuts and Dried Fruits: Enhance the richness of the pulao by adding cashews, almonds, and raisins.
3. Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of green chilies and red chili powder according to your heat preference.
4. Brown Rice: For a healthier version, substitute white Basmati rice with brown Basmati rice, adjusting the cooking time and water quantity accordingly.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg

Conclusion

Vegetable Pulao Desi Handi style is a delightful and aromatic dish that captures the essence of traditional South Asian cuisine. The use of fresh vegetables, fragrant spices, and the unique flavor imparted by the handi make this dish a standout. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a festive occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the vibrant colors, rich aromas, and the comforting taste of this authentic Vegetable Pulao. Happy cooking!

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Delight in the wholesome goodness of Vegetable Pulao Desi Handi Style, a perfect blend of flavors and textures that brings the essence of Pakistani home cooking to your table. Enjoy this nutritious and hearty dish with family and friends.