Calling all veggie connoisseurs in Bangalore! Tired of the same old side dishes? Craving a flavour explosion that celebrates the humble vegetable? Then ditch the dal and buckle up for a Bangalore pulao pilgrimage – a flavour odyssey unlike any other!
Pulao, the fragrant cousin of biryani, is a rice dish that sings with aromatics and bursts with colourful vegetables. This Bangalore staple comes in a dazzling array of styles, each boasting its own unique personality. From the comforting simplicity of home-style recipes to the vibrant explosions of street vendors, Bangalore’s veggie pulao scene is a paradise for the discerning palate.
But with so many options, where does a determined pulao pilgrim begin? Worry not, fellow foodies! We’ve compiled a sacred list of the top 5 spots serving upBangalore’s most delightful vegetarian pulao. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more!
Muddanna Hotel – S.L.N Lunch Home (Basavanagudi)
Our pilgrimage begins at a legendary institution – Muddanna Hotel, also known as S.L.N Lunch Home in Sampangi Rama Nagar. This no-frills haven is a Bangalore institution, revered for its simple yet soul-satisfying South Indian fare. Their vegetable pulao is a masterpiece of restraint. Fluffy basmati rice is studded with fresh seasonal vegetables, gently spiced with turmeric, coriander, and a hint of ghee. Each bite is a celebration of quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Don’t forget to pair it with their legendary rasam for a truly unforgettable experience.
Sidappa Hotel (Commercial Street)
Next, we head to the bustling heart of Commercial Street, where Sidappa Hotel beckons with its old-world charm. This heritage eatery is famous for its Mysore Masala Dosa, but their vegetable pulao is a hidden gem. Here, the rice takes on a vibrant yellow hue, infused with fragrant turmeric and saffron. A medley of perfectly cooked vegetables – carrots, peas, beans, and sometimes even cauliflower – adds pops of colour and texture. A squeeze of lemon and a dollop of their signature coconut chutney elevates this pulao to new heights.
B.N. Sambaiah Shetty Brothers (Malleshwaram)
For a taste of pure Bangalore magic, head to Malleshwaram and dive into the vibrant chaos of B.N. Sambaiah Shetty Brothers. This iconic vegetarian restaurant is a haven for street food enthusiasts, and their vegetable pulao is a must-try. Here, the focus is on bold flavours. The rice is cooked with a generous amount of ghee, resulting in a nutty aroma and a slightly richer texture. The vegetables are a revelation – a symphony of carrots, capsicum, green beans, and sometimes even crunchy cashews, all tossed in a fragrant masala that explodes with flavour.
Namma SLN (Jayanagar)
Namma SLN in Jayanagar is a modern twist on the classic Bangalore vegetarian experience. This bright and airy restaurant offers a contemporary take on traditional dishes, and their vegetable pulao is no exception. They use a variety of seasonal and regional vegetables, ensuring a unique flavour profile with each visit. Think baby corn, green peas, lotus root, and even mushrooms, all cooked to perfection and nestled in fluffy basmati rice. The use of fresh herbs like mint and coriander adds a touch of freshness, making this pulao a delightful balance of tradition and innovation.
Chikkanna Tiffin Room (Jayanagar)
Our pulao pilgrimage concludes at the beloved Chikkanna Tiffin Room in Jayanagar. This small, family-run eatery is a local favourite, and their vegetable pulao is a testament to their culinary heritage. Theirs is a simpler version, focusing on the inherent sweetness of the vegetables and the subtle fragrance of the spices. Don’t be fooled by its apparent simplicity, though. The rice is cooked to perfection, each grain separate and fluffy, while the vegetables retain a satisfying bite. A drizzle of ghee and a sprinkle of fried cashews add the finishing touches to this comforting and flavourful pulao.
Beyond the Plate: The Soul of Bangalore’s Pulao
Bangalore’s vegetable pulao is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary journey that reflects the city’s vibrant spirit. Each restaurant we visited offered a unique take on this beloved dish, showcasing the diverse influences that have shaped Bangalore’s food scene. From the comforting simplicity of Muddanna Hotel to the bold flavours of B.N. Sambaiah Shetty Brothers, each pulao tells a story – a story of tradition, innovation, and the enduring love for fresh, seasonal vegetables.
