Matar Pulao (Peas Pilaf)

Aromatic & Flavourful Peas Pilaf

Matar Pulao is a fragrant and lightly spiced rice dish made with tender green peas, basmati rice, and warm whole spices. It’s an easy one-pot dish that pairs beautifully with curries, raita, or a simple yogurt side. Perfect for both everyday meals and festive occasions!

Author

Andrew Harrington

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

35 minutes

Servings

4

Category

Vegetarian

Cuisine

 Indian, Pakistani, Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 x Cup basmati rice, rinsed and soaked for 20 minutes
• 1.5 x cups water
• 1 x tbsp ghee
• 1 x small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 x bay leaf
• 1 x cinnamon stick
• 2 x green cardamom pods
• 1 x tsp cumin seeds
• ½ x tsp garam masala
• ½ x tsp salt (or to taste)
• ¾ x cup green peas (fresh or frozen)

Directions

1. 1. Prepare the Rice
2. Rinse the basmati rice until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for 20 minutes, then drain and set aside.
3. 2. Sauté the Aromatics
4. Heat ghee or oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. 3. Cook the Onions
6. Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. This adds depth of flavor to the pulao.
7. 4. Add Peas & Spices
8. Stir in the green peas, garam masala, and salt. Sauté for 1-2 minutes to enhance the flavors.
9. 5. Cook the Rice
10. Add the drained basmati rice and mix gently to coat it with the spices. Pour in 1.5 cups of water and bring to a simmer. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to low.
11. 6. Simmer & Rest
12. Cook for 12-15 minutes until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Turn off the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.