Pudina Pulao | Shahi Mint Pulao

Serves 4
Rice soaking time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 40 to 45 minutes


 Ingredients:

• 2 cups basmati rice (washed & soaked for 30 minutes)
• 1 small onion sliced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 small stick of cinnamon
• 3 cardamom pods
• 3 cloves
• 1 star anise 
• 2 tsp ginger & garlic paste
• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 cup chopped mint leaves
• 4 cups of water
• 1 tbsp vinegar
• Salt
• 5 tbsp cooking oil

 Method:

1. Heat oil in a large non stick sauce pan and add all the whole spices (2 bay leaves, 1 small stick of cinnamon, 3 cardamom pods, 3 cloves, 1 star anise)
2. Fry sliced onion till soft, followed by ginger & garlic paste, turmeric powder and mint leaves. Fry for 1 minute.
3. Add 4 cups of water, salt and vinegar. Let it come to a boil.
4. Now add soaked rice and stir gently. Place the lid and cook on medium to low heat for 10 minutes or till all the water has dried and rice is cooked.
5. Open the lid and gently stir and loosen up the sides to allow the trapped steam to escape. Remove from heat and keep covered for 15 to 20 minutes before serving.
6. Serve hot with any spicy curry.