Shadi Wale Veg Pulao

Shadi Wale Veg Pulao, or Wedding-style Vegetable Pulao, is a flavorful and aromatic rice dish typically served at weddings and special occasions in India. It is a delightful combination of fragrant basmati rice, mixed vegetables, and aromatic spices.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups basmati rice
• 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4-5 green cardamom pods
• 4-5 cloves
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 medium-sized onion, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 green chili, slit lengthwise (optional)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, corn, etc.)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.
2. Heat the ghee or vegetable oil in a large pot or deep pan over medium heat.
3. Add the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaf to the pot. Sauté for a minute until the spices release their aroma.
4. Add the sliced onion to the pot and sauté until it becomes golden brown.
5. Add the cumin seeds to the pot and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
6. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chili (if using) and cook for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
7. Add the mixed vegetables to the pot and sauté for a couple of minutes until they are slightly cooked.
8. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot. Stir gently to combine with the vegetables and spices.
9. Add the garam masala, turmeric powder, and salt to the pot. Mix well to evenly coat the rice and vegetables with the spices.
10. Pour 3 cups of water into the pot and bring it to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let the pulao simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
11. Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and let the pulao rest for 5 minutes.
12. Fluff the pulao gently with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.

Your Shadi Wale Veg Pulao is ready to be served. It pairs well with raita (yogurt sauce) and papad (crispy lentil crackers). Enjoy the fragrant and flavorful rice dish, perfect for special occasions and celebrations!