Rice dishes are quite popular in India. Our mains always consist of a type or variation of rice irrespective of from which part of India we are. The only difference is between the variety of rice grains. Typically whatever is grown and preferred in that part is used in making different types of rice dishes. Long Grain Basmati rice is quite popular in North India. Typically all our rice dishes are fragrant with garam masala and different aromatics. Paired with different types of curries, lentils, and raitas these rice dishes are always the star dish on a desi dining table. And why not? India is among the top rice-producing countries in the world. I am a big rice eater and always prefer them over any type of Indian bread. Growing I have seen my mother, grandmother, and aunts making them with so much efficiency. They never used a pressure cooker for rice and for that reason, their rice was always khila -khila (a term for not sticky). I follow the same recipe and my rice always comes out perfect. However, for busy times I have given you a failproof recipe for Instant Pot as well.
What Ingredients Needed to make Matar Pulao / Peas Pulao
Long Grain Basmati Rice - Green Peas- Onion- Aromatics- Ginger, Garlic, Green Chilies Cashew Nuts, Salt Whole Spices- Bay leaf, Black Cardamom, Green Cardamom, Cinnamon Sticks. Ghee /Oil- Water, Garam Masala Powder
How to Make Matar Pulao/ Peas Pulao
Wash and Soak the rice for 15 minutes. (This gives the best result.)Then drain the rice on a plate lined with thick layers of paper towel. Keep the plate on the counter for 15 minutes. We are drying the rice here. This process ensures a lovely texture of rice. Caramelize sliced onion with ginger and garlic paste, and chopped green chilies in the ghee/oil. This is the part where the most flavors develop. Saute rice to give it a wonderful toasted flavor, then mix the green peas in. Onion and ginger garlic with green chili flavor will enhance the taste. Add hot water to rice and cook it with lids on. Let the rice settle down for a few minutes before fluffing it. Garnish and Enjoy. Enjoy your Matar Pulao /Peas Pulao.
How to serve
I like to serve them with Dal Bukhara, Lasooni Palak Paneer, and Bengali Aloo Dum. You can serve Pahadi Cucumber Raita , Air Fried Baingan Bhaja, and Asian Cucumber Salad with this. Suitable for all special occasions and parties.
Points to remember before preparing Matar Pulao/Peas Pulao in the Instant Pot,
1- Soaking and drying rice is not required but doing so will ensure better results. 2-Cooking time will be reduced significantly. 3-Green Peas will look less green in color.
You may want to check my rice recipes,
Saffron Rice Carrot & Peas Pulao Mushroom Fried Rice Broccoli Fried Rice Vegan Thai Basil Fried Rice
