Quinoa Pulao (Vegetable Quinoa Recipe) Complete Recipe + Ingredients List

What is Quinoa Pulao (Vegetable Quinoa Recipe)? – An introduction

Quinoa has gracefully made its way into the Indian kitchen, creating a fusion that’s as delightful as it is nutritious. A seed that’s cooked and eaten like a grain, quinoa is a splendid substitute for rice, especially when you’re spinning a pulao. This recipe weaves the magic of quinoa with the vibrant veggies and aromatic spices that define Indian cuisine. Whether you’re a committed health enthusiast or simply looking for a delicious meal, this quinoa pulao ticks all the right boxes. Dive into the symphony of flavours and let your taste buds dance to a new rhythm of health and taste. For the stovetop version:

Quinoa Pulao (Vegetable Quinoa Recipe) Ingredients List

• 1 cup quinoa
• 1½ to 2 tablespoon oil (or ghee)
• 1 small onion (chopped or sliced)
• 1 green chili pepper (chopped or slit)
• ½ teaspoon ginger garlic paste
• ¼ to ½ cup carrots (chopped)
• ¼ cup green peas
• 2 to 3 green beans (chopped)
• 1 small tomato ((optional
• chopped finely))
• 10 to 12 mint leaves ((pudina) chopped finely)
• ½ to ¾ teaspoon garam masala
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric
• ¼ teaspoon red chilli powder ((optional))
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 small bay leaf
• ½ teaspoon cumin seeds ((jeera))
• 2 green cardamoms
• 1 inch cinnamon
• 2 cloves
• 1¼ cups water (to cook in Instant pot OR)
• 2 cups water (to cook in pot )

Quinoa Pulao (Vegetable Quinoa Recipe) Recipe

• Begin by placing quinoa in a wide bowl; wash with about 3-4 cups of water, rubbing the seeds gently, then drain.
• Repeat the rinsing twice more, before draining the quinoa completely through a colander.
• Prepare your vegetables by washing and finely chopping them; set aside.
• Initiate the ‘Sauté’ function on the Instant Pot and add The OG oil to the steel insert.
• Toss in all whole spices and wait for them to sputter before adding onions and green chilies, sautéing until they appear translucent, roughly 2 minutes.
• Introduce ginger garlic paste to the pot, sautéing for half a minute, then incorporate turmeric, salt, chili powder, garam masala, mint, and veggies, cooking until tomatoes collapse and meld with the spices.
• Add in the quinoa and stir briskly for another 30 seconds, then cancel the sauté function. Pour in water and stir, ensuring no food is sticking to the bottom.
• Secure the lid of the Instant Pot, set the steam release valve to ‘sealing’, and choose the ‘Pressure Cook’ setting for 1 minute with a newer model, or 2-3 minutes if yours is older.
• Allow the pressure to release naturally before opening the lid to reveal your fragrant quinoa pulao.
• Give the dish a brief rest to cool slightly, season with additional salt and a splash of lemon juice to taste, gently fluffing the quinoa.
• In a sizable pot, heat The OG oil over a medium flame then add your whole spices.
• Once the spices start to sizzle, incorporate the onions and chilies, sautéing until golden and tender.
• Sprinkle in the ginger garlic and cook until the aroma is tantalizing but not burnt, followed by a quick stir of salt, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder.
• Mix in the veggies and mint for a brisk minute, adding tomatoes at this point if you’re using them, cooking until soft.
• Tip in the well-drained quinoa and stir for another half to a full minute. Pour in water, mix, and do a taste test, adjusting salt as needed.
• Escalate heat to bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cooking until the quinoa is tender and has absorbed the water.
• Let the cooked quinoa rest covered on low heat for 5-7 minutes, then season with lemon juice if preferred.

Healthier Version of Quinoa Pulao (Vegetable Quinoa Recipe) Recipe

• To reduce calories, opt for a spray of The OG oil when sautéing to limit oil intake.
• Select a medley of fibrous vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers to increase the nutrient content while keeping calories in check.
• Swap regular salt for Himalayan pink salt and reduce the overall amount used in the recipe.
• For additional protein without significant calorie addition, stir in a cup of cooked chickpeas or green peas.
• Serve with a side of cucumber raita made with low-fat yogurt to complement the pulao without overindulging.

Quinoa Pulao (Vegetable Quinoa Recipe) Recipe Nutritional Facts

Quinoa Pulao (Vegetable Quinoa Recipe) is a North Indian dish with a calorie count of 431 kcal calories per serving. Per serving, it is estimated to have 16 g carbohydrates, 28 g proteins, 29 g fats, 732 mg sodium and 4 g sugar!

This quinoa pulao is a testament to the versatility and adaptability of our Indian cuisine. By balancing tradition with a touch of innovation, you’ve created a dish that not only satisfies the soul but also cares for the body. Pair it with a side of yogurt or a simple salad, and you’ve got a meal that’s as balanced as it comes. Enjoy the riot of colours on your plate and the burst of flavours in every bite, knowing you’re treating yourself to a feast that’s guilt-free and utterly delightful.