Mushroom pulao is one of my all-time favorite vegetarian dishes. The earthy flavor of mushrooms combined with aromatic spices and fragrant basmati rice creates a delightful and satisfying meal. Every time I prepare mushroom pulao, the tantalizing aroma fills my kitchen, and I can’t wait to dig in.
Ingredients:
- Mushrooms – 2 cups (sliced)
- Basmati rice – 1.5 cups
- Onion – 1 large (sliced)
- Tomato – 1 medium (chopped)
- Green chilies – 2 (slit)
- Ginger-garlic paste – 1 tablespoon
- Whole spices (cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, bay leaf)
- Coriander powder – 1 teaspoon
- Cumin powder – 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric powder – 1/2 teaspoon
- Garam masala – 1 teaspoon
- Fresh coriander leaves – for garnishing
- Salt to taste
- Oil or ghee – 3 tablespoons
- Water – 3 cups
Preparation:
To start, I wash and soak the basmati rice for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, I heat the oil in a pan and add the whole spices. Once they release their aroma, I add the sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Then, I add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, followed by the chopped tomatoes. After the tomatoes soften, I add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are cooked.
Next, I drain the soaked rice and add it to the pan, along with the coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. I mix everything gently to ensure the rice is coated with the flavorful spices. Then, I pour in the water, cover the pan, and let the pulao cook on low heat until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the moisture.
Serving:
Once the mushroom pulao is ready, I garnish it with freshly chopped coriander leaves. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma make this dish irresistible. I love serving it with raita (yogurt-based condiment) and a side of crispy papad. The combination of flavors and textures makes every bite a delightful experience.
Conclusion:
Mushroom pulao is a dish that never fails to impress me. The balance of spices, the tender mushrooms, and the fluffy rice create a harmony that is truly satisfying. Whether enjoyed as a weeknight dinner or presented at a special gathering, mushroom pulao always manages to captivate the taste buds and leave a lasting impression.