Sama Rice Pulao
Sama Rice Pulao, also known as Samvat Pulao or Barnyard Millet Pulao, is a delightful dish commonly enjoyed during the Navratri fasting period. Made from sama rice, which is derived from the seeds of the sama plant, this pulao is not only delicious but also a nutritious alternative to regular rice pulao. During Navratri, when grains like rice are avoided, sama rice comes to the rescue, offering a wholesome and satisfying meal option.
This pulao is infused with aromatic spices and mixed with an assortment of vegetables, making it a flavorful and fulfilling dish fit for fasting. Its light and fluffy texture, combined with the subtle flavors of the spices, makes it a comforting meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family during the auspicious days of Navratri.
Ingredients (सामा चावल पुलाव के लिए सामग्री)
- 1 cup sama rice (सामा चावल)
- 1 medium potato, diced (आलू)
- 1 medium carrot, diced (गाजर)
- 1/4 cup green peas (हरी मटर)
- 1 tablespoon ghee (घी)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (जीरा)
- 2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise (हरी मिर्च)
- 1-inch piece of ginger, finely chopped (अदरक)
- Sendha namak (rock salt), to taste (सेंधा नमक)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper (काली मिर्च पाउडर)
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped, for garnish (ताजा धनिया पत्ती)
Step-wise Process
- Rinse the sama rice thoroughly under running water and soak it in enough water for about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Heat ghee in a pressure cooker or a deep pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add diced potatoes, carrots, and green peas to the cooker. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
- Add slit green chilies and finely chopped ginger to the cooker. Sauté for another minute.
- Drain the soaked sama rice and add it to the cooker. Mix well with the sautéed vegetables.
- Season with sendha namak and ground black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add 2 cups of water to the cooker and mix gently. Close the lid of the cooker and cook on medium heat for 2 whistles, or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
- Once done, let the pressure release naturally. Open the lid and fluff the pulao gently with a fork.
- Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves before serving.
Number of Servings
- This recipe serves approximately 3-4 people.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
Important Points to remember while making Sama Rice Pulao
- Ensure to soak the sama rice before cooking to ensure even cooking and fluffiness.
- Adjust the quantity of green chilies according to your spice preference.
- Keep an eye on the water quantity while cooking the pulao to prevent it from becoming too dry or too mushy.
How to Serve Sama Rice Pulao
Serve the Sama Rice Pulao hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves. Enjoy it with vrat-friendly accompaniments like yogurt or vrat chutneys for a wholesome fasting meal.
Final Thoughts
Sama Rice Pulao offers a flavorful and nutritious option for those observing the Navratri fasting rituals. With its aromatic spices and mixed vegetables, this pulao brings joy to the fasting table, making the festive period even more delightful. Embrace the spirit of Navratri with this delicious Sama Rice Pulao and comforting pulao recipe.
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