When time is short but you still want a wholesome, comforting meal, veg pulao is a lifesaver. This one-pot rice dish is fragrant, nutritious, and ready in about 25 minutes—ideal for busy weekdays in the US, UK, or Canada.
Ingredients
1 cup basmati rice (washed and soaked 15 minutes)
2 tablespoons oil or ghee
1 bay leaf
1 small cinnamon stick
3–4 cloves
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 small onion, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
1½ cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, corn)
½ teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon garam masala
Salt to taste
2 cups water
Fresh coriander (optional)
Quick Method (Stovetop or Pressure Cooker)
Heat oil/ghee in a pot. Add bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, and cumin seeds.
Add sliced onion and sauté until lightly golden.
Stir in ginger-garlic paste; cook 30 seconds.
Add vegetables, turmeric, garam masala, and salt. Mix well.
Add drained rice and gently stir.
Pour in water, bring to a boil, then cover and cook:
Stovetop: Low heat, 12–15 minutes
Pressure cooker: 1 whistle, then rest 5 minutes
Fluff with a fork. Garnish with coriander.
Time-Saving Tips
Use frozen mixed vegetables—no chopping.
Make it in a rice cooker: add everything and press start.
Add a spoon of store-bought pulao or biryani masala for instant flavor.
Serve With
Plain yogurt or raita
Pickle or chutney
Simple cucumber salad
This easy veg pulao recipe for busy days is light yet satisfying, customizable, and perfect for lunchboxes or quick dinners. One pot, minimal prep, maximum comfort—done. Want a microwave or Instant Pot version too?