How To Make Matar Pulao Peas Pilau

 How To Make Matar Pulao Peas Pilau

Matar Pulao, also known as Peas Pilau, is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish made with peas and aromatic spices. Here's a simple recipe to make it:

### Ingredients:

- 1 cup basmati rice

- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)

- 1 onion, thinly sliced

- 2 tomatoes, chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1-inch piece ginger, minced

- 2 green chilies, slit (adjust according to your spice preference)

- 1 cinnamon stick

- 2-3 green cardamom pods

- 4-5 cloves

- 1 bay leaf

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1 teaspoon coriander powder

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)

- Salt to taste

- 2 tablespoons ghee or oil

- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

- Fried onions (optional, for garnish)

### Instructions:

1. **Preparation:**

   - Wash the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes, then drain.

2. **Cooking:**

   - Heat ghee or oil in a pan or skillet over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, green cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaf. Sauté until fragrant.

   - Add thinly sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

   - Add minced garlic, ginger, and slit green chilies. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.

   - Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and mushy.

   - Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a couple of minutes.

   - Add green peas and drained basmati rice. Stir gently to coat the rice and peas with the spices.

   - Add 2 cups of water (adjust according to the rice variety's cooking instructions). Bring it to a boil.

   - Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and water is absorbed. Do not uncover the pan during this time.

   - Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes.

3. **Serve:**

   - Fluff the rice gently with a fork.

   - Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro leaves and fried onions (if using).

   - Serve hot as a main dish or as a side with raita (yogurt dip) or any curry of your choice.

Enjoy your aromatic and delicious Matar Pulao (Peas Pilau)!

You can adjust the spice levels according to your preference. Adding a pinch of saffron soaked in warm milk will enhance the flavor and color of the pulao.