Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsFatima's CafeFlavorful Rice Pilau Recipe

Flavorful Rice Pilau Recipe

Inspired by Fatima's Cafe
Time1h
Serves4

Make Flavorful Rice Pilau Recipe in just 1h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

Optional Garnish

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Rinse the Rice

    In a fine mesh sieve, rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch.

  2. 2

    Soak the Rice

    Soak the rinsed rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.

Cooking the Pilau

  1. 3

    Sauté Onions

    In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

  2. 4

    Add Garlic and Spices

    Stir in the minced garlic, cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  3. 5

    Add Vegetables

    Add the diced carrot and peas to the pot, stirring to combine with the spices and onions.

  4. 6

    Add Rice and Water

    Add the soaked and drained basmati rice to the pot. Pour in 4 cups of water and bring to a boil.

  5. 7

    Cook the Rice

    Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.

  6. 8

    Fluff and Serve

    Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Garnishing

  1. 9

    Garnish

    Serve the rice pilau garnished with fresh cilantro and lemon wedges, if desired.

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