Quinoa Pulao Instant Pot Recipe

Quinoa pulao is a flavorful, healthy dish inspired by Indian cuisine that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal. 

Made with quinoa and fresh vegetables, it’s easy to prepare using just one pot. 

Quinoa pulao is not only gluten-free but also vegan, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. It’s great for meal prep, too, as it travels well for work lunches or kids’ packed meals.

Whether you choose to cook it in an Instant Pot or on the stovetop, you can have this nutritious dish ready in just 30 minutes. Let’s find out how.

The Health Benefits of Quinoa

Quinoa isn’t just versatile—it also comes with several health benefits:

• High in Protein: Quinoa is a complete protein, providing all essential amino acids.
• Rich in Fiber: It contains more fiber than many other grains, aiding digestion.
• Gluten-Free: Suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
• Low Glycemic Index: Helps control blood sugar levels.
• High in Antioxidants: Especially when sprouted, quinoa contains beneficial antioxidants.

Ingredients for Quinoa Pulao

To make quinoa pulao, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa (rinsed)
• 1 ¼ cups water
• 1 tablespoon oil (or ghee)
• 2 green chilies, chopped (Thai green chilies recommended)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon garlic-ginger paste
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, beans, peas, corn)
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• Whole spices: 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, 1 bay leaf, 1-inch cinnamon stick, 2 cardamom pods, 2 cloves
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves for garnish

Note: Make sure to rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove the bitter-tasting saponin coating.

How to Make Quinoa Pulao

Instant Pot Method

1. Prepare the Instant Pot: Select the sauté function and add the oil. Once hot, add the cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cardamom, and cloves. Sauté for a few seconds.
2. Cook the Aromatics: Add the chopped onions, garlic-ginger paste, and green chilies. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions soften and turn light brown.
3. Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in the mixed vegetables and mint, cooking for another minute. Then add the turmeric powder, garam masala, salt, rinsed quinoa, and water. Mix well.
4. Pressure Cook: Close the lid, set the Instant Pot to manual/pressure cook on high pressure, and cook for 2 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally.
5. Finish: Open the lid, stir in the lime juice, and garnish with chopped coriander leaves. Serve warm.

Stovetop Pressure Cooker Method

1. Follow the Same Steps: Use the same process as the Instant Pot method but cook in a stovetop pressure cooker.
2. Cook Under Pressure: Close the lid, place the pressure cooker whistle, and cook for 1 whistle on medium heat. Turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally.
3. Fluff and Garnish: Fluff the quinoa with a fork, then add lime juice and coriander before serving.

Stovetop Pot Method

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the oil and sauté the whole spices. Add the onions, garlic-ginger paste, and chilies, cooking until the onions are soft.
2. Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in the vegetables, mint, turmeric, garam masala, salt, quinoa, and water. Bring to a boil.
3. Simmer and Cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook until all the water is absorbed (about 15-20 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Rest, Fluff, and Garnish: Let the quinoa rest for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Finish with lime juice and coriander.

Serving Suggestions For Quinoa Pulao

Quinoa pulao is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a refreshing contrast, serve it with cucumber raita, a yogurt-based dish that adds a cooling element to the meal. 

It also works well with Indian pickles, which provide a tangy and flavorful kick. 

Additionally, quinoa pulao is an excellent complement to korma or other creamy curries, as its mild flavor balances the rich, spicy sauces.

Variations and Tips For This Recipe

You can easily adjust the spice level of quinoa pulao to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder dish, keep the spice level low, or add extra green chilies if you want to increase the heat. 

For a change, consider substituting the quinoa with other grains, such as millets or rice, to suit different preferences. 

While fresh vegetables offer the best flavor, using frozen vegetables is also a convenient option that works well in this dish. 

To ensure the perfect texture, be mindful not to overcook the quinoa, as it can become mushy. Following the recommended cooking times will help achieve a fluffy, separated result.

Final Thoughts

Quinoa pulao is a quick, nutritious dish that’s perfect for busy days. It’s easy to make and versatile enough to enjoy with a variety of sides. 

This guide covers the essentials for cooking it perfectly using the Instant Pot, pressure cooker, or stovetop. 

Try it out and adjust the recipe to match your taste preferences!

Frequently Asked Questions