
Instant Pot® Pudina Pulao (Mint Rice) Recipe
Instant Pot pudina pulao creates probably one of the most flavorful rice recipes you can make in just a few minutes using modern pressure cooking technology. This aromatic mint rice showcases how fresh herbs can transform simple rice into something absolutely spectacular with minimal effort required. The convenience of Instant Pot cooking makes this traditionally time-consuming dish accessible for busy weeknight dinners. The fresh mint leaves infuse the rice with incredible fragrance and flavor that elevates any meal it accompanies. This quick and flavorful rice preparation proves that impressive side dishes don't require extensive cooking time or complicated techniques.

This is probably one of the most flavorful rice recipes you can make in just a few minutes. It’s a spicy mint rice recipe that is hearty and filling as a vegetarian dish. Serve this as a side dish, or you can also take it in a lunch box and have a delicious midday meal! It is also lovely with plain or Greek yogurt.
Ingredients
1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chiles
3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint leaves
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 ½ tablespoons water
2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh cilantro
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
½ teaspoon ground ginger
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 whole cloves
2 cardamom pod
1 star anise
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 small bay leaf, torn into pieces
1 onion, diced
¼ teaspoon ground turmeric
¼ teaspoon red chile powder
4 small Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced into rounds, then halved (skin on)
1 tomato, diced
½ cup frozen peas
1 cup basmati rice
1 ¼ cups water
¼ teaspoon salt
Directions
Combine green chiles, mint leaves, garlic, 2 1/2 tablespoons water, shredded coconut, cilantro, cumin seeds, and ginger in a mortar; grind with a pestle into a paste.
Turn on a multi-functional pressure cooker (such as Instant Pot®) and select Saute function. Add olive oil and heat until warm. Add cloves, cardamom pods, star anise, bay leaf, and cinnamon. Saute until spices are fragrant, 4 to 5 minutes. Add mint paste, onion, turmeric, and red chile powder and cook for 2 minutes longer.
Mix in potatoes, tomatoes, and peas. Stir in basmati rice and saute for 1 minute longer. Pour in 1 1/4 cups water and salt. Scrape up any browned bits on the bottom of the pot and let warm 1 minute longer.
Turn off Saute mode. Close and lock the lid. Select high pressure according to manufacturer’s instructions; set timer for 6 minutes. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for pressure to build.
Release pressure using the natural-release method according to manufacturer’s instructions, 10 to 40 minutes.
Cook’s Note:
Flat-leaf parsley may be used in place of cilantro, and long-grain rice may be used instead of basmati, if preferred.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
353 | Calories |
10g | Fat |
62g | Carbs |
7g | Protein |
Nutrition Facts | |
---|---|
Servings Per Recipe 4 | |
Calories 353 | |
% Daily Value * | |
Total Fat 10g | 12% |
Saturated Fat 3g | 15% |
Sodium 489mg | 21% |
Total Carbohydrate 62g | 23% |
Dietary Fiber 4g | 15% |
Total Sugars 3g | |
Protein 7g | 14% |
Vitamin C 28mg | 31% |
Calcium 39mg | 3% |
Iron 2mg | 8% |
Potassium 240mg | 5% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.
(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.