Paneer Pulao – Indian Style
Main Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow each step to make the recipe successfully.
Fry Paneer
Heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil in a pan. Add paneer cubes and fry until they turn golden brown on all sides. Remove the fried paneer and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics and Spices
In a large pot, heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil and 1 tablespoon of ghee. Add bay leaf and whole spices (black peppercorns, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon stick) and for until fragrant. Add 1 chopped onion and cook until translucent, about . Stir in 2-3 slit green chilies and 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste, cooking for another until the raw smell disappears.
Add Vegetables and Spices
Add 1/2 cup each of cauliflower florets, green peas, chopped carrots, and chopped green beans to the pot. the vegetables for . Add the fried paneer, 1 tablespoon dhaniya powder, 1 tablespoon jeera powder, 1 tablespoon red chili powder, 1/2 tablespoon garam masala, and 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder. Mix well and cook for until the spices are fragrant.
Combine with Rice and Water
Add 1 cup of 1-hour soaked basmati rice to the pot and gently mix with the vegetables and spices. Pour in 2 cups of water and stir gently to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Cook the Pulao
Once boiling, the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and cook for , or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. for before opening the lid.
Garnish and Serve
Garnish the Paneer Pulao with fresh chopped coriander. Fluff the rice gently with a fork and serve hot.
Before You Cook
Helpful details before you startIngredient SubstitutionsMissing something? View suitable alternatives.View 7 swaps
No Paneer?
- Extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed — Pan-fry first for closer texture.
- Halloumi — Saltier; reduce added salt.
No Ghee?
- Unsalted butter (1:1)
- Neutral oil (1:1, lacks the toasted note)
No Bay leaf?
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme (per leaf)
- Pinch of dried oregano
No Onion?
- 1 tbsp onion powder (per medium onion)
- 3 tbsp dried minced onion
- Shallots or leeks (1:1)
No Garlic (fresh)?
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (per clove)
- 1/2 tsp garlic granules (per clove)
No Garam masala?
- 1 tsp cumin + 1/2 tsp coriander + 1/4 tsp cinnamon + 1/4 tsp cardamom
No Cilantro?
- Flat-leaf parsley (1:1, milder)
- Fresh mint (in chutneys, salads)
Variations
Simple ways to adapt this recipe.
- Add other vegetables like potatoesCustomise
Bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- For a richer flavorIngredient swap
Use vegetable broth instead of water.
- Add a spoonful of yogurtCustomise
Add a spoonful of yogurt along with spices for a creamy texture.
Helpful Tips
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Your Notes
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