Delicious Paneer Pulao Recipe - A Perfect One-Pot Meal

When you think of a quick, tasty, and wholesome Indian meal, Paneer Pulao tops the list! This fragrant rice dish, packed with aromatic spices, soft paneer cubes, and colorful veggies, makes for a comforting one-pot meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re planning a weekend lunch, a weekday dinner, or even a festive gathering, this Paneer Pulao recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and your guests!

Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that brings restaurant-style flavor straight to your kitchen.

? What is Paneer Pulao?

Paneer Pulao is a flavorful rice dish made with basmati rice, Indian cottage cheese (paneer), and a mix of spices and vegetables. It’s cooked together in a single pot, making it not only easy to prepare but also perfect for those who love minimal cleanup. The soft paneer absorbs all the spices, making every bite creamy and aromatic.

? Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• ✅ One-pot wonder — Less hassle, more flavor
• ✅ Perfectly balanced — Protein-rich paneer + rice + veggies
• ✅ Customizable — Add or skip veggies based on preference
• ✅ Great for lunch boxes, parties, or weekday dinners
• ✅ Vegetarian & gluten-free

? Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup Basmati rice (preferably aged, long-grain like Shri Lal Mahal Empire Basmati Rice)
• 200 gms Paneer, cubed
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, beans — optional)
• 2 tbsp ghee or oil
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste

Whole Spices:

• 1 bay leaf
• 4–5 black peppercorns
• 2–3 cloves
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1 green cardamom
• 1 tsp cumin seeds

Powdered Spices:

• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder
• Salt to taste

Garnish:

• Fresh coriander leaves
• Fried cashews (optional)

?‍? How to Make Paneer Pulao — Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prep the Rice

• Rinse basmati rice 2–3 times and soak it for 20–30 minutes. Drain and keep aside.

Step 2: Fry the Paneer

• Heat 1 tbsp ghee in a pan, lightly fry the paneer cubes until golden. Set aside.

Step 3: Tempering Spices

• In a heavy-bottomed pot or pressure cooker, heat the remaining ghee/oil.
• Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, peppercorns, cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom. Let them crackle.

Step 4: Sauté Veggies

• Add onions and sauté until golden brown.
• Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute.
• Add tomatoes and cook until soft.
• Add mixed vegetables and sauté for 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Add Rice and Paneer

• Add the soaked rice and gently mix.
• Add turmeric, chili powder, and salt.
• Pour 2 cups of water and bring to a boil.
• Add the fried paneer cubes and stir gently.

Step 6: Cook the Pulao

• Cover and cook on low flame for 10–12 minutes or until the rice is cooked and water is absorbed.
   (If using a pressure cooker, cook for 1 whistle on medium flame.)

Step 7: Rest and Fluff

• Let it rest for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.

? Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with:

• Raita (boondi, cucumber, or mint)
• Papad or salad
• Pickle or chutney on the side

Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even festive occasions!

?‍? Pro Tips for the Best Paneer Pulao

• Use aged basmati rice for the best aroma and fluffiness.
• Soaking rice gives a better texture.
• For a richer taste, cook in ghee.
• Add fried cashews or raisins for extra flavor and crunch.
• Marinate paneer in a pinch of salt and turmeric for 10 minutes before frying (optional).

❤️ Why Paneer Pulao is a Must-Try

This Paneer Pulao recipe is not just a meal — it’s a celebration of flavors. The combination of soft paneer, fragrant basmati rice, and bold Indian spices makes it a soul-satisfying dish that appeals to all ages. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this pulao will become a go-to favorite.

So the next time you crave a comforting, one-pot Indian meal, give this Paneer Pulao a try — your taste buds will thank you!

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