How to make Navratan Pulao?
Hello Friends welcome to SAS FOOD BLOGS, Today we are going to see how to make Navratan Pulao.
Navratan Pulao is a delicious and aromatic Indian rice dish that is popular in North Indian cuisine. “Navratan” translates to “nine gems,” and the dish traditionally includes a combination of nine different colourful and flavourful vegetables, fruits, and nuts.
The ingredients may vary, but common choices include peas, carrots, beans, bell peppers, paneer (Indian cottage cheese), raisins, cashews, and sometimes pineapple or other fruits.
Here’s a basic recipe for Navratan Pulao:
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, bell peppers), finely chopped
- 1/2 cup paneer (cottage cheese), cubed
- 1/4 cup cashews
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 2 green chillies, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (optional)
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter) or oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chilli powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups water
Preparation Method
Today’s recipe is delicious and taste recipe that is Navratan Pulao and so let’s gets started.
Step 1 (Navratan Pulao)
Rinse and Soak Rice:
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
Then soak the basmati rice in water for about 20 to 30 minutes.
Prepare Vegetables and Nuts:
Chop the mixed vegetables and paneer into small, bite-sized pieces.
In a pan, heat a tablespoon of ghee or oil. Roast cashews and raisins until they are golden brown. Set them aside.
Sauté Aromatics:
Heat the remaining ghee or oil in a large pan. Add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds and then add sliced onion and saute till it reaches golden brown colour. Add ginger-garlic paste and chopped green chillies.
Add Tomatoes and Spices:
Add chopped tomatoes and continue cooking for few minutes.
Add ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder and then add ½ teaspoon of red chilli powder and add ½ teaspoon of garam masala and Mix well it well.
Step 2 (Navratan Pulao)
Add Vegetables and Paneer:
Add the mixed vegetables, paneer, cashews, raisins, and pineapple chunks (if using). Sauté for a few minutes. Add yogurt and salt and mix it well and continue cooking until the vegetables half cooked.
Add Rice and Water:
Add soaked and drained basmati rice. Stir gently to coat the rice with the masala. Then add water and boil it, once it boils, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
Fluff and Garnish:
Once done, fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Serve:
Serve the Navratan Pulao hot with raita or yogurt on the side. This Navratan Pulao is a delightful and colourful dish that’s perfect for special occasions or as a festive addition to your meal. Adjust the spice levels and ingredients according to your taste preferences.
Navratan Pulao is ready to serve, so you can try this recipe in your home and enjoy it and share the recipe with your family and friends.
Benefits of Navratan Pulao:
Navratan Pulao is not only a delicious and flavorful dish but also offers various nutritional benefits due to its diverse combination of ingredients. Here are some potential benefits:
Step 3 (Navratan Pulao)
Nutrient-Rich Vegetables: Navratan Pulao typically includes a variety of vegetables such as carrots, peas, beans, and bell peppers. These vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, providing essential nutrients for overall health.
Protein from Paneer and Nuts: Paneer (cottage cheese) is a good source of protein, which is important for muscle maintenance and repair. Additionally, the inclusion of nuts like cashews provides healthy fats and additional protein.
Healthy Fats: Ghee (clarified butter) or cooking oil used in the preparation of Navratan Pulao adds healthy fats to the dish. These fats are essential for nutrient absorption and various bodily functions.
Antioxidants: The mix of colorful vegetables and fruits, such as bell peppers and raisins, contributes antioxidants to the dish. Antioxidants help protect the body’s cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Step 4 (Navratan Pulao)
Digestive Benefits: The use of spices like cumin seeds, ginger, and garlic in the recipe not only enhances the flavor but may also offer digestive benefits. These spices are believed to have digestive and anti-inflammatory properties.
Energy from Basmati Rice: Basmati rice, the main ingredient in Navratan Pulao, is a good source of carbohydrates, providing a quick and sustained energy release.
Vitamins and Minerals: The combination of ingredients brings a variety of vitamins and minerals to the dish, contributing to overall nutritional balance.
Balanced Meal: Navratan Pulao combines different food groups – grains, vegetables, protein, and fats – making it a well-balanced meal that can contribute to overall nutrition.
It’s important to note that the specific nutritional content of Navratan Pulao can vary based on the exact ingredients and quantities used in a particular recipe. Additionally, individual dietary needs and health considerations should be taken into account. While Navratan Pulao can be a nutritious and delicious addition to a meal, it’s advisable to enjoy it as part of a well-rounded and varied diet.