Quinoa Pulao Indian Recipe | Show Me The Curry

quinoa

🥗Healthier: millet

💰Cheaper: rice

Millet is a nutritious grain that can be used similarly to quinoa, while rice is more affordable.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: water

💰Cheaper: water

Using water instead of broth reduces sodium and cost.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is more budget-friendly while still providing a neutral flavor.

fresh cilantro

🥗Healthier: parsley

💰Cheaper: dried herbs

Parsley offers a similar flavor profile and is often less expensive.

Wash 2 cups of dry quinoa thoroughly and soak it in water for 30 minutes.

Drain the quinoa and set it aside.

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan and add 1 bay leaf, 1 piece of cinnamon stick, 1 black cardamom, and 2 green cardamoms; cook for 30 seconds.

Add 4 whole black peppers and 4 whole cloves that have been powdered; then add 1/2 teaspoon of cumin seeds and let it sizzle.

Add 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped, and cook until translucent.

Stir in 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of minced ginger, and green chilies to taste; cook until onions are translucent.

Add the drained quinoa to the pan and roast it on medium heat for 5 minutes.

Add 1 cup each of corn, green peas, and carrots to the quinoa; mix well.

Stir in 1 teaspoon of garam masala, 1/2 teaspoon of cumin powder, 1 teaspoon of coriander powder, and salt to taste.

Pour in 3 cups of water and add lemon juice to taste; bring to a boil.

Once boiling, cover the pan, reduce heat to low, and cook for 30 minutes.

After 30 minutes, fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it rest covered for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Garnish with cilantro before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary