Kashmiri Pulao
Meal Prep · North Indian

Kashmiri Pulao

A fragrant and mildly sweet rice dish, studded with nuts, dried fruits, and aromatic spices, embodying the rich flavors of Kashmir.

Prep: 20 min
🔥Cook: 30 min
Total: 50 min
🍽4 servings
Vegetarian
Kashmiri Pulao

Ingredients

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Method

Step-by-step
  1. Rinse Basmati rice thoroughly and soak in water for 30 minutes, then drain well.
  2. Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pot or pressure cooker over medium heat.
  3. Add cinnamon stick, green cardamoms, cloves, bay leaf, fennel seeds, and cumin seeds; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add sliced onions and cook until they turn light golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Stir in the mixed nuts, raisins, and dried fruits; sauté for 2-3 minutes until nuts are lightly toasted.
  6. Add the drained Basmati rice to the pot and gently toast for 2 minutes, ensuring each grain is coated with ghee.
  7. Pour in the vegetable broth or water, add salt to taste, saffron milk, and sugar (if using); stir gently to combine.
  8. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and cook for 15-18 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
  9. If using a pressure cooker, cook for 1 whistle on medium heat, then let the pressure release naturally.
  10. Once cooked, let the pulao rest, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing gently with a fork.
  11. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.

Nutrition

Per serving
NutrientAmount
Calories420 kcal
Protein8 g
Carbohydrates70 g
Fat13 g
Fiber3 g

Storage & Freezer Guide

Make it last
Refrigerator 3-4 days

Store leftover Kashmiri Pulao in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.

Freezer Up to 1 month

For longer storage, freeze cooled pulao in freezer-safe bags or containers. Ensure it’s completely cooled before freezing to prevent ice crystals.

Reheat Stovetop/Microwave

Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or in the microwave until thoroughly warm. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Chef’s Corner

  • Toasting the Basmati rice gently before adding liquid enhances its nutty flavor and ensures separate grains, preventing stickiness.
  • Don’t overcook the onions; they should be light golden, not dark brown, to maintain the pulao’s delicate color and flavor profile.
  • For an extra rich aroma, roast the nuts and dried fruits separately in a little ghee before adding them to the pulao.
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