Perfect Matar Pulao

Ingredients:

1. Basmati rice (1 cup, soaked and drained)
2. Green peas (1 cup, fresh or frozen)
3. Onion (1 large, thinly sliced)
4. Ghee or cooking oil (2 tablespoons)
5. Cumin seeds (1 teaspoon)
6. Bay leaf (1)
7. Cinnamon stick (1-inch)
8. Green cardamom pods (2-3)
9. Cloves (2-3)
10. Black peppercorns (5-6)
11. Ginger-garlic paste (1 teaspoon)
12. Green chilies (2, slit)
13. Turmeric powder (1/2 teaspoon)
14. Red chili powder (1/2 teaspoon, optional)
15. Garam masala (1/2 teaspoon)
16. Salt (to taste)
17. Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

Preparation Steps:

1. Soak Rice:
   • Wash basmati rice thoroughly, soak it in water for 30 minutes, and then drain.
2. Saute Aromatics:
   • In a pan, heat ghee or cooking oil. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, green cardamom pods, cloves, and black peppercorns. Sauté until aromatic.
3. Add Onions:
   • Add thinly sliced onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown.
4. Add Ginger-Garlic Paste:
   • Stir in ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until the raw aroma disappears.
5. Add Green Chilies:
   • Add slit green chilies and continue sautéing for another minute.
6. Add Peas:
   • Add fresh or frozen peas to the pan and cook for a few minutes until they are slightly tender.
7. Add Spices:
   • Add turmeric powder, red chili powder (if using), garam masala, and salt. Mix well to coat the peas with the spices.
8. Add Rice:
   • Add the soaked and drained basmati rice to the pan. Gently mix to combine the rice with the peas and spices.
9. Cook Rice:
   • Pour water into the pan, ensuring a 1:2 ratio of rice to water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is cooked and water is absorbed.
10. Fluff and Garnish:
    • Once the rice is cooked, fluff it gently with a fork. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
11. Serve:
    • Matar Pulao is ready to be served. It pairs well with yogurt, raita, or your favorite side dishes.

Enjoy the aromatic and delicious Matar Pulao as a standalone meal or as an accompaniment to your favorite Indian dishes.