Shahi Pulao Recipe: A Royal Delight On Your Plate

Shahi Pulao, a dish that originates from the royal kitchens of India, is a true representation of the country's rich culinary heritage. The term "Shahi" translates to "royal," and this dish lives up to its name by offering a feast fit for kings. Shahi Pulao is an aromatic, flavorful, and visually appealing dish that combines fragrant basmati rice with a medley of vegetables, spices, and often, dry fruits and nuts.

This dish is perfect for special occasions and can be served as a centerpiece at any festive gathering.

Ingredients For Shahi Pulao

Before diving into the cooking process, let's take a look at the ingredients you will need to prepare this royal delicacy:

1. Basmati Rice: 2 cups
2. Mixed Vegetables: 1 cup (carrots, peas, beans, and cauliflower)
3. Onions: 2 large, thinly sliced
4. Ginger-Garlic Paste: 2 tablespoons
5. Green Chilies: 2-3, slit
6. Cashews: 10-12
7. Raisins: 10-12
8. Bay Leaf: 1
9. Cinnamon Stick: 1-inch piece
10. Cloves: 3-4
11. Cardamom Pods: 3-4
12. Cumin Seeds: 1 teaspoon
13. Ghee (Clarified Butter): 4 tablespoons
14. Saffron: A few strands soaked in 2 tablespoons of warm milk
15. Fresh Coriander Leaves: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
16. Fresh Mint Leaves: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
17. Yogurt: ½ cup
18. Salt: To taste

Instructions TO Prepare Shahi Pulao

Step 1: Preparing the Rice

Start by washing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes. This helps the grains to cook evenly and become fluffy. After soaking, drain the rice and set it aside.

Step 2: Cooking the Vegetables

In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cloves, and cardamom pods. Sauté for a minute until the spices release their aroma. Next, add the thinly sliced onions and cook until they turn golden brown.

Now, add the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies. Sauté for another minute until the raw smell of the ginger and garlic disappears. Add the mixed vegetables to the pan and cook them for 5-7 minutes until they are tender but not mushy.

Step 3: Cooking the Rice

In a separate large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the soaked and drained rice to the boiling water along with a pinch of salt. Cook the rice until it's 70% done—this should take about 6-7 minutes. The rice should be somewhat undercooked at this stage. Drain the rice and set it aside.

Step 4: Assembling the Pulao

In the pan with the cooked vegetables, add the yogurt, half of the fresh coriander leaves, and half of the fresh mint leaves. Mix well and cook for 2 minutes. Now, add the partially cooked rice on top of the vegetable mixture, spreading it evenly.

Drizzle the soaked saffron milk over the rice. This not only imparts a beautiful golden color but also adds a rich aroma to the dish. Sprinkle the remaining coriander and mint leaves over the rice.

In a small pan, heat the remaining ghee and fry the cashews until they are golden brown. Remove the cashews and in the same ghee, fry the raisins until they puff up. Pour this over the assembled rice.

Step 5: Final Cooking

Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and cook the pulao on low heat for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the rice to cook completely. Once done, remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork.

Serving Suggestions

Shahi Pulao is best served hot and can be paired with a variety of side dishes. Raita, a yogurt-based side dish, complements the richness of the pulao perfectly. You can also serve it with a tangy pickle or a side of roasted papad for an extra crunch.

Conclusion

Shahi Pulao is more than just a rice dish; it's a celebration of flavors, textures, and aromas. The rich combination of spices,vegetables, and dry fruits creates a dish that's both satisfying and indulgent. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply want to treat yourself to something special, Shahi Pulao is a dish that will impress every time. The process of making it may seem elaborate, but the end result is well worth the effort. So, roll up your covers and bring a touch of royalty to your dining table with this exquisite Shahi Pulao recipe.