VEGETABLE PULAO ( With Shan Biriyani Masala )

Veg pulao is the most healthiest option for one pot meals.. I keep trying out variations with different spice mixes and masala pastes. Today's version is with the flavourful Shan Biriyani Masala. I just love the flavours of this powder.

Ingredients:
Rice ... 1 & 1/2 cups
Cauliflower ... 8-10 florets
Capsicum/bell pepper ... 1 cup of green and red colours,cubed
Green peas .......... handful
(add any vegetables of your choice)
Onion ............ 1 small, sliced
Ginger garlic paste .... 1 tbsp.
Green chillies ............ 1-2
Tomato ... .... 1 medium
Cardamoms ......... 3-4
Cloves ................. 3-4
Cinnamon .......... 1 " piece
Bay leaf .............. 1-2
Turmeric powder ... 1/4 tsp
Yogurt ............. half cup
Biriyani Masala... 1 & 1/2 tbsp.

(I used Shan Sindhi Biriyani Masala)
( available at all Indian grocery stores in USA)
Mint leaves ........... handful
Coriander leaves ... handful
Salt
Oil
Method:
1. Wash the rice and soak it for 1 hour.

2. In a pressure cooker heat oil and add the whole spices, the ginger garlic paste and saute. Add the onions and stir fry till golden brown.
3. Tip in the vegetables,green chillies, tomato, salt, turmeric.

4. Mix the biriyani masala with the yogurt and add to the vegetables.(The measurement given on the packet is a lot..makes it too strong in spices.. I usually add one tbsp. for one cup of rice)
5. Simmer for a few minutes.

6. Now add the rice and double quantity of water.( If using Basmati, add a little less than double). Check the salt and close the pressure cooker.
7. After 2 whistles, simmer it a little and close the gas. Leave it for 5-7 minutes before opening the cooker.

8. Carefully seperate the rice with the back of the spoon. I use a chop stick to do this.
Serve with raita or fried potatoes.