Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare Rice

   Wash 2 cups of basmati rice thoroughly and soak in enough water for 30 minutes.

2. 2.Season Paneer

   Cut 400g paneer into medium-sized cubes. In a bowl, add paneer, 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, 1 1/2 tsp chilli powder, 1 tsp garam masala, and 1 tsp salt. Mix well to coat all paneer pieces. Let it sit for 5 minutes.

3. 3.Roast Paneer

   Heat 1 tbsp ghee in a pan. Place the seasoned paneer pieces and roast them on all sides until lightly golden brown. Remove from the pan and keep aside.

4. 4.Sauté Spices

   In a pressure cooker, add 2 tbsp ghee and 1 tbsp oil. Once hot, add whole spices (cinnamon, clove, cardamom, star anise, mace), 1 tsp cumin seeds, and 2 bay leaves. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. 5.Cook Aromatics

   Add 2 thinly sliced large onions and 4 slit green chillies. Sauté until the onions turn light golden brown.

6. 6.Add Ginger Garlic Paste

   Add 2 tsp ginger garlic paste and sauté for about 1 minute until the raw smell disappears.

7. 7.Add Tomatoes

   Add 3 finely chopped tomatoes and mix well. Cook until the tomatoes soften.

8. 8.Add Curd and Ground Spices

   Add 2 tbsp whisked curd, 1 tsp chilli powder, 1 tsp cumin powder, 1 tsp coriander powder, 1 tsp garam masala, and salt to taste. Mix everything well and cook for 2-3 minutes until the oil separates.

9. 9.Add Peas and Herbs

   Add 1 cup green peas, a handful of mint leaves, and a handful of coriander leaves. Mix well with the spice mixture.

10. 10.Combine with Paneer

    Add the roasted paneer pieces to the cooker. Gently mix them into the masala, ensuring not to break the paneer.

11. 11.Add Rice and Water

    Drain the soaked basmati rice and add it to the cooker. Gently mix the rice with the paneer and masala. Pour in 2 1/4 cups of water and mix gently. Check for seasoning and add more salt if needed.

12. 12.Pressure Cook Pulao

    Close the pressure cooker with the lid. Pressure cook for 1 whistle on medium-high flame. Once cooked, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally.

13. 13.Serve

    Open the cooker, fluff the paneer matar pulao gently with a fork. Serve hot with raita or brinjal curry.