Tadka Pulao Recipe – Aromatic, Simple & Flavor-Packed Indian Rice Dish
Tadka Pulao is a comforting yet flavorful Indian rice dish that brings together the simplicity of pulao and the bold aroma of a traditional Indian tadka. Unlike elaborate biryanis, tadka pulao is quick to prepare but never compromises on taste. Fragrant basmati rice, mild whole spices, and a finishing tempering of ghee, cumin, garlic, and spices make this dish incredibly aromatic and satisfying. Perfect for busy weekdays, family lunches, or even festive meals, tadka pulao pairs beautifully with raita, dal, or simple curries. This recipe focuses on achieving perfectly cooked rice with a rich tadka flavor that elevates a humble pulao into something truly special.What is Tadka Pulao?
Tadka pulao is a variation of traditional vegetable pulao where a hot tempering (tadka) of ghee, whole spices, and aromatics is poured over cooked rice or mixed in at the final stage. This tadka enhances aroma, adds depth of flavor, and gives the pulao a restaurant-style finish. It is lighter than biryani yet more flavorful than plain rice or jeera rice, making it a versatile dish for everyday meals.
Ingredients
For Cooking Rice
- Basmati rice – 2 cups
- Water – 4 cups
- Bay leaf – 1
- Green cardamom – 2
- Cloves – 3
- Cinnamon stick – 1 small
- Salt – to taste
Vegetables (Optional but Recommended)
- Onion (thinly sliced) – 1 large
- Carrot (chopped) – 1 medium
- Green peas – ½ cup
- Beans (chopped) – ¼ cup
For Main Cooking
- Oil – 2 tablespoons
- Ghee – 1 tablespoon
- Ginger-garlic paste – 1 tablespoon
- Green chilli (slit) – 1–2
- Cumin seeds – 1 teaspoon
For Tadka (Tempering)
- Ghee – 2 tablespoons
- Cumin seeds – 1 teaspoon
- Garlic (thinly sliced) – 5–6 cloves
- Dry red chilli – 1–2
- Asafoetida (hing) – a pinch
- Red chilli powder – ½ teaspoon
Garnish
- Fresh coriander leaves – 2 tablespoons
- Fried onions (optional)
How to Make Tadka Pulao
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Wash basmati rice thoroughly until the water runs clear.
Soak it for 20–30 minutes to ensure long, fluffy grains.
Boil water with bay leaf, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and salt.
Add rice and cook until the grains are fully cooked but separate.
Drain excess water and keep rice aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Heat oil and 1 tablespoon ghee in a pan.
Add cumin seeds and let them crackle.
Add sliced onions and sauté until lightly golden.
Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilli; cook until aromatic.
Add chopped vegetables and sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender.
Step 3: Combine Rice and Vegetables
Add cooked rice to the vegetable mixture.
Gently mix using a spatula, ensuring the rice grains do not break.
Adjust salt if required and keep the flame on low.
Step 4: Prepare the Tadka
Heat ghee in a small pan.
Add cumin seeds and allow them to splutter.
Add sliced garlic and sauté until lightly golden.
Add dry red chillies, hing, and red chilli powder.
Immediately pour this hot tadka over the rice.
Step 5: Final Mixing
Gently mix the pulao so the tadka is evenly distributed.
Cover and let it rest for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Tadka pulao tastes best when served hot and fresh.
Serve it with:
- Boondi raita or plain curd
- Dal fry or dal tadka
- Onion salad and lemon wedges
- Papad or pickle
This dish works equally well for lunchboxes and dinner menus.
Tips for Perfect Tadka Pulao
- Always soak basmati rice for best texture
- Do not overcook rice before mixing
- Use ghee generously for authentic aroma
- Add tadka at the end for maximum flavor
- Mix gently to keep grains intact
Variations of Tadka Pulao
- Jeera Tadka Pulao – skip vegetables, focus on cumin and garlic
- Paneer Tadka Pulao – add lightly sautéed paneer cubes
- Vegetable Tadka Pulao – increase vegetable quantity
- South Indian Style Tadka Pulao – add curry leaves and mustard seeds
Storage Instructions
Store leftover tadka pulao in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
It stays fresh for 24–36 hours.
Reheat gently in a pan or microwave with a splash of water.
Why Tadka Pulao is a Great Choice
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Requires simple pantry ingredients
- Light yet flavorful
- Suitable for everyday meals
- Customizable with vegetables or protein
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