Quinoa pulao or pilaf is a vegan and gluten-free Indian recipe made with quinoa, vegetables, and spices. It is perfect for meal planning. Check out how to make quinoa pulao in the Instant Pot or stovetop.
Rinse quinoa with cold water 2-3 times using a strainer.
Turn the instant pot on "Saute" mode, once it is hot, add oil.
Once the oil is hot, add the spices from the "whole spices" list.
Add the cashews and raisins and roast them for about 10-15 seconds until the cashews are slightly golden brown.
Add the carrots, green beans, and zucchini and saute for about 30 seconds.
Add quinoa, salt, and water and mix well, deglaze the bottom of the pot with a spatula if needed.
Press cancel to come out of saute mode and put the lid on.
Turn the instant pot on High pressure for 3 minutes with the pressure valve in the sealing position. Keep the "Keep warm" setting on.
Once done, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes and then manually release the remaining pressure.
Fluff the quinoa with a spoon and give it a quick mix.
Garnish with cilantro or onion greens.
Make quinoa pulao on a stovetop
Rinse quinoa with water 2-3 times using a strainer.
Heat a saucepan on medium high flame, once saucepan is hot, add oil.
Once the oil is hot, add the spices from the "whole spices" list.
Add the cashews and raisins and roast them for about 10-15 seconds until the cashews are slightly golden brown.
Add the onions and saute for about 30 seconds until they turn translucent.
Add the carrots, green beans, and zucchini and saute for about 30 seconds.
Add quinoa, salt, and 3 cups water and mix well.
Cook covered with a lid for 15 minutes.
Turn off the stove and optionally add rinsed frozen peas and mix well and cover it again for 5 minutes.
Transfer to a serving bowl.
Garnish with cilantro or onion greens.
Notes
If you are using fresh peas, you can add it while pressure cooking along with other veggies.
If you are using frozen peas, add them after the pulao is cooked. Rinse the frozen peas with warm water, and add them after opening the lid. Mix it well and cover the lid for 2-3 minutes to allow it to cook.