Matar Pulao (Peas Pilaf)
Matar Pulao (Peas Pilaf)
Andrew Harrington
4
10 minutes
35 minutes
Indian, Pakistani, Vegetarian
Vegetarian
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!
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. Prepare the Rice
- Rinse the basmati rice until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for 20 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- 2. Sauté the Aromatics
- 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.
- 3. Cook the Onions
- Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. This adds depth of flavor to the pulao.
- 4. Add Peas & Spices
- Stir in the green peas, garam masala, and salt. Sauté for 1-2 minutes to enhance the flavors.
- 5. Cook the Rice
- 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.
- 6. Simmer & Rest
- 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.