Nut-Free Tawa Pulao

Looking for a flavorful, allergy-friendly twist on a beloved street food classic? This Nut-Free Tawa Pulao is the perfect one-pot meal that’s quick, easy, and packed with bold, vibrant flavors. Made with fluffy basmati rice, a medley of colorful vegetables, and fragrant Indian spices like pav bhaji masala, it’s cooked on a traditional tawa or skillet for that signature smoky essence. With no nuts in sight, this dish is ideal for those with dietary restrictions, without compromising on taste. Finished with a refreshing squeeze of lemon juice and fresh cilantro, this crowd-pleaser pairs beautifully with yogurt or a crisp cucumber salad for a wholesome, satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a healthy comfort food fix!

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 3 cups Cooked basmati rice
• 3 tablespoons Oil (vegetable or sunflower)
• 1 tablespoon Butter (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 2 pieces Green chilies, slit
• 1 tablespoon Garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Ginger, grated
• 2 medium Tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1.5 cups Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and bell peppers), chopped
• 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon Red chili powder
• 1.5 teaspoons Pav bhaji masala
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons Water
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 teaspoons Lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

Heat a tawa (or a large skillet) on medium heat and add the oil and optional butter.

Step 2

Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds.

Step 3

Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until they become golden brown.

Step 4

Add the slit green chilies, minced garlic, and grated ginger, then sauté for 1 minute until the raw aroma disappears.

Step 5

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.

Step 6

Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes until they are slightly tender.

Step 7

Sprinkle turmeric powder, red chili powder, pav bhaji masala, and salt over the vegetables, then mix well.

Step 8

Add 2 tablespoons of water to prevent the spices from burning and cook for 1 minute.

Step 9

Gently add the cooked basmati rice and mix everything thoroughly, making sure the rice is evenly coated with the spices and vegetables.

Step 10

Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.

Step 11

Turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and a splash of lemon juice.

Step 12

Serve hot with a side of yogurt or a fresh cucumber salad.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1147.2 grams (1147.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1280

Total Fat 57.90g	74%
Saturated Fat 13.80g	69%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 31mg	10%
Sodium 2543mg	111%
Total Carbohydrate 171.80g	62%
Dietary Fiber 17.20g	61%
Total Sugars 23.50g
Protein 21.70g	43%

Vitamin D 7IU	35%
Calcium 240mg	18%
Iron 13mg	73%
Potassium 1726mg	37%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 40.2%

Protein: 6.7%

Carbs: 53.1%