Pulao Awadhi

Pulao Awadhi is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish infused with aromatic spices, tender pieces of marinated meat, and rich saffron. This traditional dish hails from the Awadh region of India and is perfect for a comforting dinner.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 150 grams
• Chicken, boneless and cut into cubes - 200 grams
• Onion, thinly sliced - 1 medium
• Ginger-garlic paste - 1 tablespoon
• Yogurt - 50 grams
• Green chili, slit - 1
• Cinnamon stick - 1 inch
• Cloves - 3
• Cardamom pods - 2
• Bay leaf - 1
• Saffron strands - a pinch
• Warm milk - 2 tablespoons
• Coriander leaves, chopped - 2 tablespoons
• Mint leaves, chopped - 1 tablespoon
• Cooking oil or ghee - 2 tablespoons
• Salt - to taste
• Water - 350 ml

Steps

1. Soak the basmati rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
2. In a bowl, marinate the chicken with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, salt, and green chili for at least 15 minutes.
3. Heat oil or ghee in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and add the sliced onions. Fry until golden brown.
4. Add the marinated chicken to the pot and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned.
5. Incorporate the cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom pods, and bay leaf. Stir well to release the spices' aroma.
6. Add the drained rice to the pot and gently mix it with the chicken and spices for 2 minutes.
7. Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
8. In a small bowl, soak saffron strands in warm milk and set aside.
9. Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
10. Drizzle the saffron milk over the pulao, garnish with chopped coriander and mint leaves, and serve hot.

Nutrition

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 25 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 70 mg
• Total Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Water: 0.35 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein from chicken, supporting muscle health.
• Contains aromatic spices that aid digestion and boost metabolism.

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