Paneer Pulao Recipe: A Protein-Packed Summer Lunch
During the hot summer months, preparing a nutritious and protein-rich lunch can be a challenge. To simplify your meal planning, we bring you an easy Paneer Pulao recipe that can be made in a pressure cooker in less than 20 minutes. This dish is not only quick but also packed with flavors and protein, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying summer lunch.
Ingredients Required
- 1 cup rice
- 150–200 g paneer
- 1 onion
- 1 tomato
- 1/4 cup green peas
- 1/4 cup carrot
- 1–2 green chilies
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tbsp curd
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 bay leaf
- 1-2 cloves
- 1 small cinnamon stick
- 1/4 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 tsp ghee
- 2 cups water
- 2 tbsp coriander leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Heat 1 tsp ghee in the pressure cooker.
Step 2
Lightly fry the paneer cubes until they turn golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 3
Add the remaining ghee to the cooker. Then add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cloves, and cinnamon stick. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4
Add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns golden brown. Then add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and cook for another minute.
Step 5
Stir in the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, salt, and curd. Cook the mixture until the oil separates from the masala.
Step 6
Add the green peas, carrots, and soaked rice. Sauté everything together for 2 minutes to coat the rice with the spices.
Step 7
Pour in 2 cups of water, add garam masala and adjust salt if needed. Mix well. Place the fried paneer cubes on top. Close the pressure cooker lid and cook on medium heat for 2 whistles.
Step 8
Once the pressure releases naturally, open the cooker. Garnish the pulao with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with curd and pickles.
This paneer pulao is a wholesome meal that combines the goodness of protein-rich paneer with vegetables and aromatic spices. It is perfect for a quick summer lunch that keeps you energized without spending too much time in the kitchen.
