A Simple Vegetable Pulao for Your Next Meal

Gather basmati rice, chopped vegetables, sliced onion, oil or ghee, salt and whole spices such as cumin, bay leaf or cardamom. Choose vegetables that cook at a similar pace, or cut firmer vegetables into smaller pieces.

Rinse the rice gently. Follow the soaking and water instructions on its packaging; a pressure cooker, covered saucepan and rice cooker may each need a different method. Drain soaked rice before adding it to the pan.

Warm the oil or ghee, add your spices and soften the onion. Add the vegetables, then gently fold in the drained rice. Add measured water and salt, and cook using the method recommended for your rice and equipment.

Once the rice is cooked, allow it to rest briefly before gently separating the grains with a fork. Serve with your preferred curry or raita. Record the quantities you used so you can repeat a batch your household enjoys.