Kashmiri Pulao

Kashmiri Pulao is a fragrant and colorful rice dish that combines basmati rice with a medley of dried fruits and nuts, creating a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. This traditional Kashmiri dish is perfect for a special dinner, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the region.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 1 cup (200g)
• Water - 2 cups (500ml)
• Ghee - 2 tablespoons (30ml)
• Cumin seeds - 1 teaspoon (5g)
• Cardamom pods - 4 (2 crushed, 2 whole)
• Cloves - 2
• Cinnamon stick - 1 inch
• Bay leaf - 1
• Salt - 1 teaspoon (5g)
• Mixed dried fruits (raisins, apricots, and cranberries) - 1/2 cup (75g)
• Mixed nuts (cashews and almonds) - 1/4 cup (35g)
• Saffron strands - a pinch
• Milk - 1 tablespoon (15ml)
• Chopped fresh mint - 2 tablespoons (10g)
• Chopped fresh coriander - 2 tablespoons (10g)

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for about 30 minutes.
2. In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat the ghee over medium heat and add the cumin seeds, crushed cardamom, cloves, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot, stirring gently to coat the rice with the ghee and spices.
4. Add 2 cups of water and salt to the pot, then bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and water is absorbed.
5. While the rice is cooking, soak the saffron strands in warm milk for about 5 minutes.
6. Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork.
7. In a small pan, lightly toast the mixed nuts until golden brown, then add them along with the mixed dried fruits, saffron milk, mint, and coriander to the rice. Gently mix everything together.
8. Serve the Kashmiri Pulao warm, garnished with additional nuts and fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 10 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 10 mg
• Total Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in carbohydrates, providing energy for daily activities.
• Contains nuts and dried fruits that are high in healthy fats and antioxidants.

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