Kabuli Chana Pulao
A fragrant one-pot rice dish where fluffy basmati rice is cooked with tender chickpeas and aromatic whole spices. This wholesome North Indian meal is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner, often enjoyed with a side of cool raita.
For 4 servings
7 steps. 35 minutes total.
- 1
Prepare Chickpeas and Rice: Drain the overnight-soaked chickpeas
- a.In a pressure cooker, cook the chickpeas with 3 cups of water and 1/2 tsp of salt for 4-5 whistles (about 15 minutes) until tender. Drain and set aside. Separately, drain the soaked basmati rice completely and set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté Aromatics: Heat ghee in a 3-liter or larger pressure cooker over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cloves, green cardamoms, and black peppercorns. Sauté for 30-40 seconds until they become fragrant.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Brown Onions and Cook Masala: Add the sliced onions and sauté for 6-8 minutes until they are golden brown. Add the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies, cooking for another minute until the raw aroma disappears. Then, add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they soften.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Add Spices and Chickpeas: Stir in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Cook for 1 minute until the oil begins to separate. Add the cooked chickpeas and mix well to coat them in the masala.
- 5
Combine and Pressure Cook: Gently add the drained basmati rice to the cooker
- a.Stir very gently for 30 seconds to mix without breaking the grains. Pour in 2.5 cups of water, the remaining salt (approx. 1.5 tsp), and garam masala. Give it a final gentle stir.
- 6
Cook and Rest: Secure the lid of the pressure cooker
- a.Cook on medium-high heat for 2 whistles. Turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally, which takes about 10-15 minutes. Do not quick release.
- 7
Garnish and Serve: Once the pressure has settled, open the lid
- a.Drizzle the lemon juice over the rice and sprinkle with chopped coriander leaves. Gently fluff the pulao with a fork from the sides to separate the grains. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving hot with your favorite raita or plain yogurt.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Soaking basmati rice for 30 minutes is essential for achieving long, separate, and fluffy grains.
- 2Ensure onions are well-browned (but not burnt) as this step builds the deep, savory-sweet flavor base of the pulao.
- 3The rice-to-water ratio is crucial. For soaked basmati rice in a pressure cooker, a 1:1.5 ratio is a good starting point. We use slightly more here to account for the chickpeas.
- 4Always allow the pressure to release naturally. This final steaming step is what makes the rice perfectly cooked and fluffy.
- 5For a richer flavor, you can use the water in which the chickpeas were boiled (chana stock) instead of plain water.
- 6Be very gentle when stirring the rice to prevent the delicate grains from breaking.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetable Chana Pulao
Add 1 cup of mixed vegetables like carrots, peas, and beans along with the onions to make it more nutritious and colorful.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Increase the amount of green chilies and red chili powder. You can also add a pinch of black pepper powder along with the garam masala.
With Brown RiceWith Brown Rice
Substitute basmati rice with brown basmati rice. You will need to increase the water to about 3 cups and cook for 4-5 whistles.
Minty FlavorMinty Flavor
Add 1/4 cup of chopped fresh mint leaves along with the coriander leaves for a refreshing aroma and taste.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Plant-Based Protein
Chickpeas are a powerhouse of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function, making this a great meal for vegetarians and vegans.
High in Dietary Fiber
The combination of chickpeas and rice provides a significant amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps in maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
Rich in Complex Carbohydrates
Basmati rice offers complex carbohydrates that provide sustained energy, keeping you full and energized for longer periods compared to simple carbs.
Boosts Digestion
Spices like cumin, ginger, and coriander are known for their digestive properties. They can help stimulate digestive enzymes and reduce bloating.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Kabuli Chana Pulao contains approximately 550-600 calories, depending on the amount of ghee used and serving size. It's a balanced meal with carbohydrates, protein, and fats.