- **Salt** - to taste (essential for balancing flavors)
- **Oil or ghee** - 2 tbsp (ghee adds a rich, authentic flavor)
- **Water** - 2.5 cups (for cooking rice in the Instant Pot)
- **Lemon juice** - 1 tbsp (optional, for a tangy twist)
### Optional Garnishes:
- **Fried onions** - for a crispy topping
- **Cashews or almonds** - for a nutty crunch
- **Fresh mint leaves** - for garnish and extra freshness
This **Instant Pot Pudina Pulao** recipe is perfect for a quick, flavorful, and aromatic one-pot meal. It’s packed with fresh mint, fragrant spices, and wholesome ingredients, making it a great choice for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Enjoy this **mint rice** dish with raita, salad, or your favorite curry!
Advertisement
Steps
# How to Make Instant Pot Pudina Pulao (Mint Rice) – A Flavorful One-Pot Meal
Pudina Pulao, also known as Mint Rice, is a fragrant and flavorful Indian rice dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Using an Instant Pot makes this recipe even easier, ensuring perfectly cooked rice with minimal effort. Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious Instant Pot Pudina Pulao that’s packed with fresh mint flavor and aromatic spices.
---
## **Ingredients for Instant Pot Pudina Pulao**
- 1.5 cups basmati rice (washed and soaked for 20 minutes)
- 2 cups fresh mint leaves (pudina), tightly packed
- 1/2 cup fresh coriander leaves
- 2-3 green chilies (adjust to taste)
- 1-inch ginger, chopped
- 3-4 garlic cloves
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 medium tomato, chopped
- 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups water (for cooking rice)
- 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1-2 bay leaves
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 2-3 cloves
- 1-2 cardamom pods
- Salt to taste
---
## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **Step 1: Prepare the Mint Paste**
1. In a blender, combine fresh mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chilies, ginger, and garlic.
2. Add 2-3 tablespoons of water and blend into a smooth paste. Set aside.
---
### **Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics**
1. Turn on the Instant Pot and select the **Sauté** mode.
2. Add ghee or oil to the pot. Once hot, add cumin seeds, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, cloves, and cardamom pods. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
4. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.
---
### **Step 3: Add the Mint Paste and Rice**
1. Add the prepared mint paste to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw smell.
2. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot. Gently mix to coat the rice with the mint mixture.
3. Add green peas and salt to taste. Mix well.
---
### **Step 4: Pressure Cook the Pudina Pulao**
1. Pour 2 cups of water into the pot and give it a quick stir.
2. Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the **Sealing** position.
3. Select the **Pressure Cook** or **Manual** mode and set the timer for 6 minutes on high pressure.
---
### **Step 5: Natural Pressure Release**
1. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes.
2. After 10 minutes, carefully turn the valve to the **Venting** position to release any remaining pressure.
---
### **Step 6: Fluff and Serve**
1. Open the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork.
2. Serve hot with raita, papad, or your favorite curry.
---
## **Tips for Perfect Pudina Pulao**
- Use fresh mint leaves for the best flavor.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer green chilies.
- For a richer taste, replace water with vegetable or chicken stock.
---
## **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
This Instant Pot Pudina Pulao is a quick, one-pot meal that’s bursting with fresh mint flavor and aromatic spices. It’s vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, the Instant Pot ensures perfectly cooked rice every time!
---
**Keywords**: Instant Pot Pudina Pulao, Mint Rice Recipe, One-Pot Indian Rice, Vegan Pudina Pulao, Easy Mint Rice, Instant Pot Indian Recipes
Enjoy this flavorful and aromatic Pudina Pulao as a wholesome meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends!