Navratan Pulao: A Culinary Jewel of Indian Vegetarian Cuisine

Navratan Pulao is a popular vegetarian dish that originates from the Indian subcontinent. It is a fragrant and colorful rice dish that is made with a variety of vegetables, spices, and nuts. The name “Navratan” means “nine jewels,” which refers to the nine different types of gems or ingredients that are used in the dish. Each ingredient in Navratan Pulao adds its unique flavor and texture, making it a flavorful and nutritious meal that is perfect for any occasion.

 Ingredients For Navratan Pulao Recipe

1. Vegetable oil – 4 TBSP
2. Potato – 1 – peeled and cut into cubes
3. Carrot – 1 – peeled and cut into cubes
4. French beans – 4-5 cut into pieces
5. Green peas – ⅓ cup
6. Cauliflower flowerettes – ½ cup
7. Tofu – cut into cubes – ½ cup
8. Bay leaf – 2
9. Cinnamon pieces – 2-3
10. Black pepper – 4-5
11. Cloves – 2-3
12. Black Cardamom – 1
13. Green Cardamom – 2-3
14. Cumin seeds – 1 Tsp
15. Onion Sliced – 1
16. Ginger – Garlic paste – 1 TBSP
17. Charoli – 1 TBSP
18. Raisins – 1 TBSP
19. Basmati Rice – boiled – 2 cups
20. Saffron – 1 TSP mixed with 1 TBSP non dairy milk
21. Lemon juice – 1 TBSP
22. Salt to taste

Method For Preparing Navratan Pulao –

1. Heat 3 TBSP of oil in a pan.
2. Saute cut potatoes for a minute.
3. Add cut carrots, French beans, and green peas one at a time.
4. Saute well, cover, and cook for 3-4 minutes.
5. Keep the sauteed vegetables aside.
6. In the same pan, saute cauliflower till it turns golden.
7. Remove and keep aside with the sauteed vegetables.
8. Saute tofu till it gets a golden color.
9. Remove and keep aside.
10. In a pot, add 1 TBSP of oil.
11. Once hot, saute bay leaves, cinnamon pieces, black pepper cons, cloves, black cardamom, green cardamom, and cumin seeds.
12. Add sliced onions and saute till golden brown.
13. Add ginger-garlic paste and saute well.
14. Mix in the fried vegetables and boiled rice, and add salt.
15. Mix well.
16. Pour in saffron with non-dairy milk and mix well.
17. Close the lid and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes.
18. Remove the lid and mix well.
19. Add 1 TBSP of lemon juice and mix well.
20. Serve hot.

In conclusion, Navratan Pulao is a delicious and healthy rice dish that is perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking for a flavorful meal. With its vibrant colors, fragrant aroma, and diverse mix of vegetables, nuts, and spices, Navratan Pulao is sure to impress your guests and make your mealtime a memorable one. So, why not give this recipe a try and experience the culinary treasures of India in your own kitchen?