What do you do after a party where there is leftover rice? Our leftover rice usually gets converted into different variations of Pulao (Fried Rice). Even when you are in a hurry some spices and veggies can transform plain white rice into an exciting dish. This time my rice makeover was a Pulao with Edamame and cabbage.
Edamame is basically fresh soybeans that has been harvested at the peak of ripening right before the seed has hardened. Anyone who's eaten in a sushi restaurant may have eaten this delicious bean. Edamame may be an acquired taste, but luckily my kids have been happily snacking on these green beans since I first introduced it to them. So I have a pack of Edamame in my refrigerator these days.
I buy it from the local Trader Joe's (look for Shelled Soybeans Edamame- ready-to-eat) available in their refrigerator section. Edamame is the only vegetable that offers a value of protein equal to that of meat and eggs, and is rich in calcium, iron, zinc, fiber, and many of the B vitamins. Click here for a nutrition label.
Edamame adds an extra flair to this Pulao, with its beautiful, bright green color. Makes it more fun for kids to eat and I just love it when my kids say ..."Mommy Mommy ..more Edamame !" Yes, they did come up with this cute rhyme.
Ingredients (serves 3-4)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup chopped cabbage
- 1/2 cup edamame
- 1 tsp cumin seeds (jeera)
- an inch of cinnamon stick
- 2-3 Bay leaves
- a pinch of turmeric (haldi)
- Red Chilli (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 green chilli (optional )
- 1/2 tsp Pulao masala
METHOD
- Heat oil in a frying pan
- When hot, add cumin seeds and let it crackle
- Add cinnamon and bay leaves
- Lower the flame and then add turmeric, red chilli powder and pulao masala
- Add chopped cabbage, edamame, and salt. Cook on high heat for a couple of minutes, then cover and cook on low until done(5-7 min).
- Add the cooked rice and mix it well
- Cook the Pulao for another 3-4 min with constant stirring over medium heat until all the flavors are well incorporated
Enjoy this protein rich Pulao served hot with a simple cooling cucumber Raita (Yoghurt Dip)!
