Shahi Pulao Recipe
Pulao, also known as rice pilaf, is a flavorful one-pot dish made with aromatic basmati rice, spices, and a mix of vegetables or meats. This timeless recipe is a staple in many cuisines, celebrated for its simplicity, rich taste, and versatility. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, pulao is easy to prepare and can be customized with endless ingredient combinations. Its fragrant aroma and comforting flavors make it a go-to choice for both everyday meals and special occasions.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati rice (rinsed, soaked for 20 minutes, and drained) | 1 cup |
| Ghee or cooking oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Bay leaf | 1 nos |
| Cinnamon stick | 1-inch |
| Cloves | 2–3 nos |
| Green cardamom pods | 2–3 nos |
| Cumin seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Large onion (thinly sliced) | 1 nos |
| Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans) | ½ cup |
| Mixed nuts (cashews, almonds, raisins) | ½ cup |
| Paneer cubes (optional) | ½ cup |
| Thick yogurt (whisked) | ¼ cup |
| Salt to taste | -- |
| Fresh coriander and mint leaves For garnish | -- |
Easy Pulao Recipe Instructions
1. Cook the Rice
Boil 4 cups of water with a pinch of salt. Add the soaked basmati rice and cook until 80% done. Drain the rice and set aside.
2. Prepare the Aromatic Base
Heat ghee or oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Add the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom, and cumin seeds. Sauté until the spices release their aroma.
3. Golden Onions
Toss in the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. This caramelization adds a deep flavor to the pulao.
4. Add Veggies and Nuts
Stir in the chopped vegetables, nuts, and paneer cubes (if using). Sauté until the veggies are tender and the nuts turn golden.
5. Creamy Yogurt Mix
Reduce the heat and gently stir in the whisked yogurt. Allow it to blend into the mixture, creating a creamy base.
6. Layer with Rice and Saffron
Spread the cooked rice evenly over the vegetable mixture. Drizzle the saffron-infused milk over the rice to impart a royal aroma and golden hue.
7. Steam for Perfection
8. Final Touch
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati rice (rinsed, soaked for 20 minutes, and drained) | 1 cup |
| Ghee or cooking oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Bay leaf | 1 nos |
| Cinnamon stick | 1-inch |
| Cloves | 2–3 nos |
| Green cardamom pods | 2–3 nos |
| Cumin seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Large onion (thinly sliced) | 1 nos |
| Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans) | ½ cup |
| Mixed nuts (cashews, almonds, raisins) | ½ cup |
| Paneer cubes (optional) | ½ cup |
| Thick yogurt (whisked) | ¼ cup |
| Salt to taste | -- |
| Fresh coriander and mint leaves For garnish | -- |
Easy Pulao Recipe Instructions
1. Cook the Rice
Boil 4 cups of water with a pinch of salt. Add the soaked basmati rice and cook until 80% done. Drain the rice and set aside.
2. Prepare the Aromatic Base
Heat ghee or oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Add the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom, and cumin seeds. Sauté until the spices release their aroma.
3. Golden Onions
Toss in the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. This caramelization adds a deep flavor to the pulao.
4. Add Veggies and Nuts
Stir in the chopped vegetables, nuts, and paneer cubes (if using). Sauté until the veggies are tender and the nuts turn golden.
5. Creamy Yogurt Mix
Reduce the heat and gently stir in the whisked yogurt. Allow it to blend into the mixture, creating a creamy base.
6. Layer with Rice and Saffron
Spread the cooked rice evenly over the vegetable mixture. Drizzle the saffron-infused milk over the rice to impart a royal aroma and golden hue.
7. Steam for Perfection
8. Final Touch
