Mint Pulao (Pudina pulao)

This is a very easy pulao.This has the freshness and flavour of Mint.Mint is a natural herb which has many medicinal properties.It facilitates good digestion.It also helps to treat cold, prevents hiccups etc.It is said that mint should be made a part of our daily diet. I have added a recipe for Mint chutney also. The Mint paste for the pulao is quite similar to this chutney. The pulao is prepared in a pressure cooker which makes it quite easy.

Ingredients:

For the Mint paste:

Mint leaves - a small bunch

Coriander leaves - a few strands

Ginger - 1" piece

Green Chillies - 2 -3

Coconut - 2 tbsp

Rice - 1 cup (I used regular rice.Basmathi is preferable)

Onion - 1 finely chopped

Cumin seeds - 1/2 tsp

Water - 2 cups

Oil - 1 tsp

Salt

Wash and drain the mint and coriander leaves.

Grind together all the ingredients under For the Mint paste  to prepare the paste.

Make a coarse paste by adding very little water if necessary.

Wash and drain the rice.

In a pressure cooker, add oil. When the oil gets heated, add cumin seeds.

When they finish popping, add the onions. Saute the onions until they turn transparent.

Now add the mint paste and saute for about 2- 3 minutes. Do not burn the paste.

Add the rice, saute for another 2 minutes.Add the water and salt as per your taste.

Now pressure cook for about 2 whistles.

Serves 2-3

Notes:

*I used the regular rice. Basmathi rice might be better for this which will give good aroma.Check for the rice and water proportion for basmathi on the packet.

*You can add roasted cashews for garnishing.

*You can add carrots or green peas if you want to add vegetables.