Pulao is one of those comforting dishes we all crave during winters. With the abundance of fresh vegetables this season, you can make countless delicious dishes, and pulao is definitely one of them. It’s a one-pot wonder made with simple whole spices and fresh vegetables, delivering flavor that feels like a warm hug. The best part? It is very quick to make and does not require a long list of ingredients. Plus, it’s a complete meal in itself – no need for any additional vegetables or curries.
Read also:Bored with pulao? Try This Comforting One-Pot Rasam Rice Instead
While matar pulao, cabbage pulao, and mixed veg pulao are winter staples, let’s give them a new twist. This time, we are adding Hara Chana Pulao (aka Choliya Pulao) to your recipe list. Cholia, or green gram, is a special winter ingredient that is rich in protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals. Bonus: It’s great for weight loss because of the protein it contains. So, why not make the most of this seasonal gem? Trust us, once you try this recipe, it will become your favorite in winters.
If you’ve never tried green gram pulao before, now is the time! It’s not just delicious; It is also rich in nutrients, making it suitable for both lunch and dinner. Pair it with some bathua raita, tangy chutney, or your favorite pickle, and you’ve got a winter-appropriate meal in a plate.
Here are tips to make the perfect green gram pulao
1. Choose the right rice:
Basmati rice works best for this recipe, giving the pulao its distinctive flavor and texture. Make sure to soak the rice for about 20 minutes before cooking. If you don’t have basmati, regular rice will work too!
2. Cooking Green Grams:
Unlike black gram, green gram does not require hours of soaking. It gets cooked quickly in the pressure cooker in just 2-3 whistles.
3. Don’t skip whole spices:
Cardamom (green and black), cloves and bay leaves are important to make the pulao aromatic and tasty.
Ingredients for Green Gram Pulao
2 cups basmati rice
1 cup green gram (cholia)
1 onion (chopped)
1 tomato (chopped)
1 teaspoon cumin
5 cloves
2 small cardamoms
1 large cardamom
2 bay leaves
1/2 tsp red chilli powder
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1 teaspoon biryani masala
3 tbsp oil
salt to taste
Step by step recipe of Hara Chana Pulao. How to make green gram pulao:
Heat oil in pressure cooker. Add cumin seeds and all the whole spices (cardamom, cloves and bay leaves).
Add chopped onion to it and fry until it turns golden brown.
Add tomatoes and cook until soft and mushy.
Mix green gram, then add red chilli powder, turmeric, coriander and biryani masala. Stir well.
Add soaked basmati rice and mix everything gently. Add a glass of water (adjust depending on the type of rice).
Add salt, lemon juice and fresh coriander. To add extra flavour, you can add a spoonful of desi ghee at this stage.
Close the lid of the pressure cooker. Cook till one whistle, then reduce the flame and let it cook for 2-3 minutes.
Turn off the flame and let the pressure release naturally. Once done, fluff the casserole with a fork and transfer it to a serving bowl.
Serve hot with your favorite side dish, and you’re good to go!
If you’re tired of the same old recipes, this winter-special pulao is exactly what you need to change things up. It is healthy, easy to make and full of flavour. Give it a try – you’ll thank us later!
