This is my very own, 100% original recipe for an authentic Indian "pulao". The word "pilaf" is distortion of the word "pulao" which simply means a rice dish cooked with veggies and spices. This tastes great with a spicy raita, or with plain yogurt. Using margarine makes this a vegan.
Saute garlic paste/powder/minced garlic in butter for about 15 seconds, then add the chopped onions and saute until browned, about 5-10 minutes.
04Add the rice, cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, peppercorns, and cloves to the onion-garlic mixture and saute for 10-15 minutes or until the rice is evenly browned.
05Now add carrots, peas, salt, and water, stir, bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat to low, and cook, without stirring, until the rice is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
06Uncover and evaporate excess water if any, remove from flame, and fluff up with a fork.
07Season with extra salt and pepper, if necessary, and serve hot!