One Pot Quinoa Pulav

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One Pot Quinoa Pulav is a wholesome twist on the classic rice pulav that blends nutrition with flavor. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, quinoa makes a fantastic base for this hearty dish. 

This recipe is perfect for those who are looking to replace rice in traditional Indian Meals. Swapping rice for quinoa takes it up a notch in terms of health benefits without compromising taste. Whether you’re looking for a lighter meal, a Vegal or gluten-free option, or just something new, this pulav is the perfect way to enjoy a balanced, flavorful bite.

What is Quinoa Pulav?

Quinoa Pulav is a modern take on the classic rice-based pulav, combining tradition with enhanced nutrition. By swapping out rice for quinoa, this dish retains the aromatic spices and vegetables that make pulav so beloved while adding a nutritional boost. Quinoa Pulav is filling, flavorful, and a fantastic way to pack more protein and fiber into your meals without sacrificing taste.

Overview of Quinoa

Quinoa (pronounced keen-wah) is often referred to as a “superfood,” and for good reason. Technically a seed, it’s treated like a grain in cooking due to its mild flavor and versatile texture.  

Quinoa is believed to be high in protein, rich in fiber and loaded with essential nutrients. It is naturally gluten-free making it suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.

Its adaptability and health benefits have earned quinoa a spot on tables worldwide. Whether used in salads, soups, or as a base for a dish like pulav, it’s clear why this ancient seed has grown so popular.

I like to use quinoa in many different types of recipes. For this Quinoa Crispies, where it can be topped in your fruit bowl or just added on top of your milk. 

For Breakfast I also make this easy and quick, no knead Quinoa Chia seed Bread and quinoa Idli or this Flourless Quinoa Vegetable muffins. 

I like to make variations of this pulao and at times I make this spicy coriander and mint Quinoa Pulao or this nutritious and protein-rich Quinoa Soya Vegetable Pulav.

Ingredients for Quinoa Pulav

• Quinoa: The star of the recipe! Its nutty flavor and fluffy-yet-textured bite make it a perfect sub for rice. Rinse and soak the quinoa to remove any bitterness.
• Mixed Vegetables: The more colorful, the better. Classic choices include:
  • Carrots
  • Green beans
  • Peas
  • Bell peppers
• Onion: Finely chopped onions add a hint of sweetness.
• Spices: These are what bring the pulav to life. The key ones include:
  • Cumin Seeds: A toasty, earthy aroma to start the dish.
  • Turmeric: For a warm, golden color.
  • Garam Masala: A robust blend of spices that adds warmth and flavor balance.
  • Red Chili Powder: Adjustable for heat, it gives the pulav a gentle kick.
  • Cinnamon, Bay Leaves, and Cloves (Optional): For more traditional, fragrant layers.
  • Ginger-Garlic grated or Paste: A blend of fresh ginger and garlic enhances the savory base and ties the spices together beautifully.
  • Fresh Corinader: Chopped Coriander is usually sprinkled on top for an herby finish that’s both refreshing and fragrant.

These essentials ensure your quinoa pulav is flavorful, well-textured, and visually appealing. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Quinoa Pulav

Making quinoa pulav might seem intimidating if you’re trying it for the first time, but with a little guidance, it’s incredibly simple.  

Preparing Quinoa

Getting quinoa ready is the backbone of this dish. Proper preparation will remove its natural bitterness, called saponin, and ensure it has the ideal fluffy texture. Follow these steps to get it just right:

1. Rinse the Quinoa:
   
   • Start by placing the quinoa in a bowl or a fine-mesh strainer.
   • Run cold water over it for about 30 seconds, swirling it around with your fingers. This washes away the saponin coating that can make quinoa taste bitter.
2. Soaking:
   
   • Soak the quinoa in water for about 20-30 minutes. This softens the grains slightly and helps them cook faster and more evenly.
   • After soaking, drain it completely using your strainer.
     

Sautéing Vegetables and Spices

• In a large skillet or pan, heat 1 tablespoons of oil or ghee on medium heat. Ghee adds richness, but regular vegetable oil works just as well.
• Add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds to the hot oil and let them sizzle.
• Toss in a bay leaf, a cinnamon stick, and 2-3 cloves for added depth. (If using) 
• Add finely chopped onions (about 1 medium onion) and sauté until they turn golden brown.
• Stir in 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste or grated ginger-garlic, green chili, giving it a minute or two to cook out its rawness.
• Add turmeric, garam masala, and red chili powder to your taste preference. 
• Add chopped veggies and saute it for 1-2 minutes.

Cooking of the Pulao

• Now add in the soaked quinoa and double the amount of water. 
• Add Salt, and mix. Bring the mixture to a boil.
• Once it starts boiling reduce the stove to medium and let it cook until all the water is almost evaporated.
• Simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes.
• Switch off and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
• Enjoy with yogurt or just as is. 

Easy One Pot Quinoa Pulav

Make your mealtime healthier with quinoa pulao! This simple recipe combines taste, texture, and nutrition in every bite.

5 from 6 votes

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Indian

Keyword: Gluten Free, Vegan, Vegetables

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes minutes

Soaking Time: 20 minutes minutes

Servings: 2

Calories: 231kcal

Author: Renu Agrawal-Dongre

Equipment

• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Pot/Pan
• Knife
• Cooking Spoon

Ingredients

• 1/2 Cup Quinoa washed and soaked for 15-20 minutes in normal room temperature water
• 1/4 Cup Capsicum diced
• 1/4 Cup Green Peas
• 1 onion small, chopped
• 2-3 garlic cloves grated
• ¼ inch ginger grated
• 1 teaspoon oil Olive/Vegetable/Sunflower
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 7-8 curry leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon Garam Masala Powder
• 1 green chili finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon Red chili powder
• 1 Cups water
• Salt as per taste

Instructions

Preparing Quinoa

• Rinse the Quinoa thoroughly in water using a mesh-strainer or a bowl.
• Saok the Quinoa for 20-30 minutes in normal water.

Sautéing Vegetables and Spices

• In a pan add oil. Once hot, add the mustard seeds.
• Once the mustard crackles add curry leaves and green chillies, garlic and ginger.
• Then add onion and fry until translucent.
• Now add the capsicum and green peas and saute for 1-2 minutes.
• Add the masala’s and salt and mix everything.

Cooking of the Pulav

• Now add the soaked Quinoa.
• Saute the Quinoa for 3-4 minutes so that it gets roasted.
• Now add 1 cups water and bring the mixture to a boil.
• Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the quinoa gets cooked.
• This should be done when the water almost evaporates.
• Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 1-2 minutes.
• Switch off once all the water is being soaked up. Cover and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

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Nutrition Facts

Easy One Pot Quinoa Pulav

Amount Per Serving

Calories 231 Calories from Fat 45

% Daily Value*

Fat 5g8%

Saturated Fat 1g6%

Trans Fat 0.01g

Polyunsaturated Fat 2g

Monounsaturated Fat 2g

Sodium 91mg4%

Potassium 417mg12%

Carbohydrates 39g13%

Fiber 6g25%

Sugar 5g6%

Protein 8g16%

Vitamin A 936IU19%

Vitamin C 108mg131%

Calcium 59mg6%

Iron 3mg17%

* I am not a nutritionist. The nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. It varies depending upon the product types or brands.

Disclaimer: I am not a nutritionist. The nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. It varies depending upon the product types or brands.

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