Fragrant and flavorful Pudina Pulav or Pulao (Mint Rice) is a beloved South Indian dish that brings together the cooling freshness of mint, the earthy depth of coriander, and the warmth of aromatic spices. This vibrant rice is not only a feast for the senses but also a quick, wholesome, and satisfying meal that perfectly balances taste and tradition. Great to spice up your lunchbox or serve something unique at dinner.
Jump to:
Why does this recipe work?
- Pudina Pulav or Mint Rice is incredibly simple to prepare, yet it delivers bold, refreshing flavors thanks to the generous use of fresh mint and coriander. The natural aroma of the herbs combined with warm spices makes this dish both comforting and exciting.
- It's also highly versatile as you can easily elevate it by adding ingredients like paneer, potatoes, or sweet corn for extra texture and flavor.
- Perfect for lunch boxes, potlucks, or casual get-togethers, Mint Rice pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from cooling yogurt salads to crispy fritters. It's a wholesome, satisfying meal that comes together with minimal effort.
What do you need to make this?
- Basmati Rice
- Spices: cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, bay leaves
- Biryani masala, Garam masala recipe ingredients
- Mint leaves, coriander leaves, Garlic, Coconut grated (optional), Green chillies, Onion, Green Peas, potatoes, and paneer (veggies are optional)
- Ghee or Clarified Butter and Salt to taste
How to make Pudina Pulav (Mint Rice)?
We start by making a paste of coriander leaves, mint leaves, green chilies, grated coconut, cinnamon, cloves, and garlic with a little water.
Heat ghee and oil in an Instant Pot or rice cooker. Fry the paneer, if using, and set it aside; it will be used for garnish later. Add cumin, cardamom, and bay leaves, followed by onions. Once the onions are browned, add the ginger garlic paste and let it sautee well. Add veggies like potatoes, peas, if using. Next, add the ground paste and saute well.
Add biryani masala or garam masala (how to make homemade garam masala) and let it mix well. Next, add washed rice, and fry for about 10 minutes, followed by water. Set the cooking mode to the "rice" option or use the manual mode on high pressure for 12 minutes.
After pressure is released, carefully open the lid and fluff the rice. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and fried paneer. Serve with a yogurt salad and fritters on the side.
Recipe FAQs
Add double the amount of water for the first cup and a cup each for the remaining cups of rice.
Basmati and Sona Masuri rice are best for making Pudina Pulav. Be careful to add the right amount of water to avoid it from getting mushy.
Related Recipes
If you tried this Pudina Pulav Recipe or any other recipe on my blog, please leave a 🌟 star rating and a 📝 comment below. I love hearing from you!
Pudina Pulav
Ingredients
- 2 cups Basmati Rice
- 1 cup coriander chopped
- 1 cup mint leaves
- 3-4 garlic pods medium sized
- ½ cup grated coconut
- ½ cup peas
- 1 potato optional
- 2 cups paneer cubed optional
- 4 green chillies
- 3-4 cloves
- ½ inch cinnamon
- 4 tsp ghee or Clarified Butter
- 4 tsp oil
- 5-6 cardamoms
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 onion
- ½ tsp garam masala or biryani masala (optional)
- 1 tsp salt per taste
Instructions
- Make a paste of coriander leaves, mint leaves, green chillies , coconut , cinnamon , cloves and garlic with a little water.
- Heat ghee and oil in an instant pot or rice cooker.
- Fry Paneer cubes and keep aside if using (can be used for garnish later)
- Add cardamom and bay leaves.
- Add fresh or frozen green peas
- Add potatoes if using
- Add the cumin, onions, ground green paste, and sauteè well.
- Add biryani masala or garam masala (optional)
- Next add the washed rice ,fry for about 10 minutes.
- Add salt and 3 cups of water and cook until done.
- Garnish with chopped coriander or mint leaves.
- If using paneer, it can also be used to garnish
- Pudina Pulav is ready. Serve with yogurt salad and papad (fritters). Enjoy!
This rice came out perfectly and tasted great! Loved it..
This looks so good!
Thank you so much 😊