Tawa Pulao - A Popular Mumbai Street Food

One of the greatest advantages of being an active food blogger is that you get to know some of the dishes that are becoming popular and is the “in thing”. Tawa Pulao is one such dish, which I was introduced to through the blog world.

Tawa Pulao is a popular Mumbai street food. The recipe sounded and looked very delicious and finally I was tempted to try out my version, which is adapted from Chef Sanjeev Kapoor’s. Believe me the first time I tried it, not just me but the entire household, including the maid just loved it and I am hooked on to this simple, quick and really delicious rice ever since. The secret ingredient is the humble Pav Bhaji Masala. It lends a unique flavor to this rice.

Serves 2

What you’ll need

1. Basmathi Rice – 1 cup
2. Onions – 2 Medium, chopped
3. Tomato – 3 Medium, chopped
4. Capsicum – 1 small, chopped
5. Green Chilly -1 slit
6. Garlic – 2 cloves, finely chopped
7. Red Chilly Powder – ½ tsp
8. Pav Bhaji Masala – 1 tbsp
9. Turmeric Powder – ¼ tsp
10. Cumin Seeds – 1 tsp
11. Butter – 2 tbsp
12. Fresh Coriander Leaves – 2 tsp finely chopped
13. Salt to taste

Method

1. Wash and soak the basmathi rice for 20 minutes. Cook it for 3 whistles with 2 cups of water.
2. Heat a Kadai with butter. Add the cumin seeds.
3. Now add chopped onions, slit green chillies and garlic. Saute for 2 to 3 minutes.
4. Next add capsicum and sauté for another 2 to 3 minutes.
5. Now add tomatoes, and turmeric powder and fry till the tomatoes become soft and mushy.
6. Add red chilly powder, and pav bhaji masala. Fry for a minute.
7. Now add the cooked, cooled rice and salt to taste. Stir on medium flame until everything blends well.
8. Check seasoning and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

That’s it simple and delicious tawa pulao is ready. Serve it along with a raita of your choice.

Note:

1. You can add veggies like green peas, boiled and cubed potatoes and carrots as well and make it more healthier. (Since I was out of any of the above veggies, I went ahead and prepared it with whatever was available)
2. Increase or decrease the spice level as per your taste.
3. A dash of lemon juice can be added at the end, but I prefer not to, since the tomatoes are tangy enough. If adding lemon juice, reduce the number of tomatoes to 2.