Wash and soak basmati rice for about 20 minutes.
Heat oil or ghee in a pan and add cumin seeds until they crackle.
Add sliced onions and sauté until light golden.
Add chopped vegetables and cook for 3–4 minutes.
Add soaked rice and the required amount of water, then cook until the rice becomes soft and fluffy.
Prepare raita by mixing yogurt with a pinch of salt and chopped cucumber or coriander.
Serve hot vegetable pulao with fresh raita.