Plain Pilau

Discover the simplicity and aromatic allure of Plain Pilau, a classic dish that transforms humble ingredients into a flavorful masterpiece. Featuring fragrant basmati rice infused with warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and a touch of garlic, this one-pot rice recipe is a cornerstone of countless cuisines. The slow sautéing of onions brings richness to the dish, while the gentle simmering ensures perfectly fluffy grains every time. Ideal as a stand-alone side or a versatile base for curries, roasted meats, or steamed vegetables, this pilau is as effortless as it is satisfying. Ready in just 35 minutes and perfect for beginner cooks, it’s a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups Basmati rice
• 4 cups Water
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil or ghee
• 1 medium Onion, finely sliced
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 piece Cinnamon stick
• 3 pieces Cardamom pods
• 4 pieces Cloves
• 1 piece Bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon Salt

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 20 minutes, then drain and set aside.

Step 2

Heat the vegetable oil or ghee in a large pot over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaf to the pot. Sauté the spices for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the sliced onion to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are golden brown.

Step 5

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

Step 6

Add the drained basmati rice to the pot and stir well to coat the grains in the spice mixture.

Step 7

Pour in the water and add the salt. Stir to combine.

Step 8

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.

Step 9

Let simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the water has been absorbed.

Step 10

Turn off the heat and let the pilau rest, covered, for 5 minutes.

Step 11

Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1521.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	812.1

Total Fat 30.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 4.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2421.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 121.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 8.2g	0%
Total Sugars 5.1g
Protein 16.4g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 218.7mg	0%
Iron 7.7mg	0%
Potassium 423.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 32.8%

Protein: 8.0%

Carbs: 59.2%