Paneer Pulao

Servings: 4 Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins Difficulty: Beginner
Paneer Pulao pinit

Paneer Pulao is a delightful one-pot rice dish loaded with soft paneer cubes, aromatic basmati rice, and flavorful spices. 

This easy-to-make recipe is a great choice when you want a delicious and wholesome meal without too much effort. With a balance of protein, veggies, and carbs, it’s a complete dish that pairs perfectly with raita or salad. 

If you’re looking for a quick and comforting rice recipe, this paneer pulao is a must-try!

Other Related Recipes You Might Like:-

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 45 mins Total Time 1 hr 5 mins
Servings: 4 Estimated Cost: $ 1 Calories: 320
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Paneer Pulao is a comforting one-pot rice dish made with fragrant basmati rice, golden fried paneer, and a mix of fresh vegetables cooked in aromatic spices. It’s light yet satisfying, making it a perfect choice for both everyday meals and special occasions. This pulao is simple to prepare, doesn’t require a long list of ingredients, and pairs beautifully with onion raita or a fresh salad. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this recipe brings together taste and nutrition in every bite.

Ingredients

Cooking Mode Disabled

Instructions

Prep Work

  1. Soak the rice

    Rinse basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for about 30 minutes. Drain before using.

  2. Fry paneer

    Heat oil in a pan, add paneer cubes, and fry them until they turn golden brown. Set aside

Method

  1. Heat oil & ghee

    Heat oil and ghee in a pressure cooker.

  2. Roast spices

    Add bay leaf, cardamom, cloves, peppercorns, and cinnamon. Sauté until aromatic.
  3. Fry onions & chilies

    Add sliced onions and green chilies. Sauté until golden brown.
  4. Sauté vegetables

    Add carrots, beans, and peas. Stir-fry for a few minutes.
  5. Add seasonings

    Mix in salt, garam masala, mint leaves, and coriander leaves. Stir well.
  6. Add paneer

    Add fried paneer cubes and mix gently.
  7. Add rice & water

    Add soaked basmati rice and water. Stir gently.
  8. Pressure cook

    Cover and cook for 1 whistle on medium flame.
  9. Rest before serving

    Let the pulao sit for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
  10. Serve

    Fluff the rice gently and serve hot with onion raita.

Equipment

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains Amazon affiliate links, i.e., when you buy any product using the links below, we get commissions. but it doesn’t cost you anything extra. If you do purchase any product using the given links, we thank you in advance!

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 320kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 12g19%
Saturated Fat 5g25%
Cholesterol 15mg5%
Sodium 480mg20%
Potassium 300mg9%
Total Carbohydrate 42g15%
Dietary Fiber 3g12%
Sugars 3g
Protein 10g20%

Vitamin A 900 IU
Vitamin C 8 mg
Calcium 200 mg
Iron 2.5 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: Paneer Pulao, Paneer Biryani,
Rate this recipe

Stay Connected with Home Cooking Show!

Love our recipes? Follow us for more delicious cooking inspiration, tips, and behindthescenes fun!

Did you make this recipe?

Tag #homecookingshow  if you made this recipe. Follow @homecookingshow on Instagram for more recipes.

Pin this recipe to share with your friends and followers.

pinit
File under

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:

Why soak basmati rice before cooking?

Soaking helps the rice absorb water, making it cook evenly and fluffier.

Can I skip frying the paneer?

You can, but frying gives it a crispy texture and enhances flavor.

Should I chop the vegetables finely?

Yes, chopping them small ensures they cook quickly and blend well with the rice.

How long should I soak the rice?

Around 30 minutes is ideal for best results

Can I use frozen paneer?

Yes, but thaw it first and pat it dry before frying.

Can I make this pulao without a pressure cooker?

Yes, cook in a regular pot, covering it until the rice is fully cooked.

What if my rice turns mushy?

Ensure correct water-to-rice ratio and avoid overcooking

Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but increase cooking time and water accordingly.

Why let the pulao rest before opening the lid?

This allows steam to settle, making the rice fluffy.

Can I add more spices?

Absolutely! Adjust flavors to suit your taste.

Hema Subramanian
Hema Subramanian Food and Lifestyle Blogger

I love to cook! And through Home Cooking Show, I hope to make cooking fun, easy, and approachable for everyone.

My way of sharing recipes is all about keeping it simple and delicious—no complicated steps, no fancy ingredients, just real home-cooked food that anyone can make. Cooking should be a joy, not a chore! Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, you’ll find something here to inspire you. If you love good food made with love, then you’re in the right place!

- Hema Subramanian

User Reviews

5 out of 5
Based on 1 ratings
5 Stars
1
4 Stars
0
3 Stars
0
2 Stars
0
1 Star
0
Rate this recipe

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Rate this recipe

Add a question

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  1. Bhargav rajput

    Best test of pulav