By Akshara
September 13, 2025
Paneer Pulao is a simple yet hearty rice preparation made with soft paneer cubes, basmati rice, aromatic spices, and vegetables. It makes for a wholesome lunch or dinner that can be cooked quickly while still feeling special.
1 cup basmati rice (soaked for 20 minutes) 200 g paneer (cut into cubes) 1 onion (sliced) 1 tomato (chopped) ½ cup peas ½ cup carrots (chopped) 1 green chilli (slit) 1 bay leaf 1-inch cinnamon stick 2 green cardamoms 2 cloves ½ tsp cumin seeds 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste 1 tsp garam masala ½ tsp turmeric powder 1 tsp red chilli powder 2 tbsp oil or ghee 2 cups water Salt to taste Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
Heat oil or ghee in a pressure cooker or pan. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.
Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute.
Add tomatoes, peas, carrots, and spices. Cook until the tomatoes turn soft.
Add soaked rice, paneer cubes, salt, and water. Mix gently. Cook until rice is done and fluffy.
Garnish with coriander leaves. Serve hot with raita or pickle.