Veg Pulao + Raita

About 30 minutes from starting to sitting down, and it is straightforward. Most of that is active, so read the method through before you start rather than chopping as you go.

Use any long-grain rice. Basmati needs less water than most, so check the packet before following the ratio here.

You can prepare it a few hours ahead and reheat gently. It keeps two days in the fridge, though it is best on the day.

Yes, it is vegetarian. It is not vegan as written because it contains dairy; swap the dairy for a plant alternative and the rest of the method is unchanged.

A cooker is faster but not essential. In an open pot, expect roughly three times the cooking time and keep an eye on the water level, topping up with hot water rather than cold.

Raita: curd, grated cucumber, salt, roasted cumin. It serves two as written. Double everything to feed four, but use a wider pan so the food still browns rather than steams.