When it comes to cooking a delicious and healthy meal, there are few dishes that compare to the humble pulav. This popular Indian dish is a staple in many households, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and can be customized to suit any taste or dietary preference. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 flavorful vegetable pulav recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From spicy mixed vegetable pulav to saffron-infused delight, each recipe is carefully crafted to highlight the natural sweetness of vegetables and the comforting warmth of aromatic spices. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking for a quick and easy meal option, these recipes have got you covered.
Spicy Mixed Vegetable Pulav
This flavorful pulav recipe combines the vibrant colors of mixed vegetables with a kick of heat from green chilies and red chili powder, making it a perfect one-pot meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 green chilies, slit
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for cooking
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped onion, grated carrot, diced potatoes, bell pepper slices, green chilies, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and red chili powder. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Rinse the rice and add it to the pan with 2 cups of water.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
South Indian Style Vegetable Pulav
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish, South Indian Style Vegetable Pulav is a staple in many Tamilian households. This recipe is a perfect blend of spices, vegetables, and basmati rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, cauliflower, carrots)
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain the water and set the rice aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and coriander seeds; let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped onion, grated carrot, diced potato, and mixed vegetables. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
5. Add 2 cups of water to the pan and bring to a boil.
6. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pan. Stir gently to combine.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Vegetable Pulav
This creamy pulav recipe combines the flavors of sautéed vegetables, aromatic spices, and melted cheese for a satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add mixed vegetables, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add rice and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
5. Simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
6. Remove from heat; stir in grated cheese until melted.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cashew and Raisin Vegetable Pulav
This Cashew and Raisin Vegetable Pulav recipe is a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional pulavs. The combination of sautéed vegetables, cashews, and raisins adds a delightful texture and taste to this simple and easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, corn)
– 1/4 cup cashews, chopped
– 1/4 cup raisins
– Salt to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
4. Add minced garlic, mixed vegetables, cashews, and raisins; stir well.
5. Drain excess water from the rice and add it to the saucepan.
6. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the rice is well coated with the vegetable mixture.
7. Cook according to package instructions (usually 15-20 minutes).
8. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges and cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Lemon Infused Vegetable Pulav
This recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the warmth of spices and tender vegetables, creating a delightful pulav that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, cauliflower)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the grated ginger, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender.
5. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir well to combine with the spices and vegetables.
6. Add the lemon juice and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Milk Vegetable Pulav
This flavorful pulav recipe combines the creaminess of coconut milk with the natural sweetness of mixed vegetables, creating a delicious and nutritious dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic, ginger, and mixed vegetables. Cook until the vegetables are tender (5-7 minutes).
3. Add the soaked rice to the saucepan and stir well.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
5. Fluff the pulav with a fork and season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Paneer and Vegetable Pulav
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish that combines the creamy delight of paneer with the freshness of vegetables, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup paneer cubes (Indian cheese)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain excess water.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion, tomato, bell pepper, and cumin seeds. Cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Add paneer cubes and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add rice to the pan and stir well to combine with the vegetable mixture.
5. Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is cooked.
6. Fluff the pulav with a fork and season with salt. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Herbed Vegetable Pulav
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish infused with a medley of herbs and spices, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup long-grain basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan and sauté onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add mixed vegetables, cumin seeds, coriander powder, and turmeric powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add rice to the saucepan and stir well to combine with the vegetable mixture.
4. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
5. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Saffron Vegetable Pulav
This Saffron Vegetable Pulav recipe is a vibrant and aromatic twist on traditional pulav, infused with the subtle warmth of saffron and the natural sweetness of vegetables. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 medium bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 10 seconds.
3. Add the onion, carrot, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the soaked saffron threads and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then add the rice.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
6. Fluff the pulav with a fork and season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic and Ginger Vegetable Pulav
Experience the aromatic flavors of India with this simple and delicious Garlic and Ginger Vegetable Pulav recipe. This flavorful pilaf is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 carrot, peeled and diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and grated ginger; sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add diced onion, red bell pepper, and carrot; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Add cumin powder and salt to taste.
5. Add rice and water to the saucepan; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed and rice is cooked.
7. Fluff with a fork and garnish with chopped cilantro (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Corn Vegetable Pulav
This flavorful pulav recipe combines the goodness of spinach, corn, and aromatic spices to create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich aroma and vibrant green color, this Spinach and Corn Vegetable Pulav is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 green chili, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the chopped onion, spinach, corn kernels, coriander powder, salt, and green chili (if using). Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the drained rice to the pan and stir well. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the rice is lightly toasted.
5. Add 2 cups of water to the pan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
6. Turn off the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato and Basil Vegetable Pulav
This aromatic pulav recipe combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the fragrance of basil, creating a flavorful and nutritious meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add rice and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
4. Add water, cherry tomatoes, and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
5. Fluff with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carrot and Peas Vegetable Pulav
A flavorful and healthy Indian-inspired rice dish, this Carrot and Peas Vegetable Pulav is a perfect weeknight meal option. With the sweetness of carrots and peas, this recipe is sure to please both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add grated carrot, cumin seeds, and peas. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are slightly tender.
4. Add rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir well. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Broccoli and Cauliflower Vegetable Pulav
A flavorful and nutritious Indian-inspired rice dish packed with the goodness of broccoli, cauliflower, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup cauliflower florets
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
3. Add broccoli, cauliflower, cumin, garam masala powder, and salt. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add soaked rice to the saucepan, stirring well to combine with the vegetable mixture.
5. Add water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
6. Turn off heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mushroom and Bell Pepper Vegetable Pulav
A flavorful and aromatic Indian-style rice dish packed with sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition. This pulav is a great way to enjoy the natural sweetness of vegetables and the savory flavor of basmati rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 large bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic, mushrooms, and bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Add cumin powder, salt, and soaked rice to the pan. Stir well.
5. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is cooked and fluffy.
6. Fluff with a fork and garnish with cilantro. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Curry Leaf Vegetable Pulav
This aromatic pulav recipe combines the warmth of curry leaves with a medley of colorful vegetables, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. The addition of curry leaves adds a unique flavor dimension to this vegetarian rice dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, corn, bell peppers)
– 2 curry leaves
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Add garlic, carrot, mixed vegetables, and curry leaves. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add rice to the pan and stir well. Add water and salt to taste.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pineapple and Cashew Vegetable Pulav
This recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with the nuttiness of cashews, all wrapped up in a flavorful pulav. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1/4 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup cashews, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add mixed vegetables, pineapple chunks, and cashews. Cook until the vegetables are slightly tender (about 5 minutes).
4. Add rice and water to the saucepan. Stir well.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
6. Fluff the pulav with a fork and season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Corn and Capsicum Vegetable Pulav
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish that combines the sweetness of corn with the crunch of bell peppers, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 medium sweet corn kernel, chopped
– 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and sweet corn kernel. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the rice to the pan and stir to combine with the vegetables and spices.
5. Add the water to the pan and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
7. Fluff the pulav with a fork and garnish with cilantro leaves. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 18 delicious vegetable pulav recipes! From classic South Indian-style dishes to creamy cheesy and tangy lemon-infused options, there’s something for everyone. Try adding some heat with spicy mixed vegetables or go sweet with pineapple and cashew. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, add some saffron and herbs for a sophisticated twist. With these flavorful recipes, you’ll never get bored with the same old vegetable pulav again! From garlic and ginger to tomato and basil, each dish is packed with flavor and perfect for any meal or occasion.