Kashmiri Kesar Pulao Recipe – A Fragrant & Flavorful Delight
Kashmiri Kesar Pulao is a luxurious, fragrant rice dish that embodies the unique blend of aromatic spices and the delicate flavor of saffron, a hallmark of Kashmiri cuisine. This vibrant, golden pulao is often served during festive occasions or as an accompaniment to rich curries like Rogan Josh or alongside crispy lotus stem cutlets. With its beautiful hue, rich aroma, and subtle sweetness, this dish brings a touch of sophistication to your meal. It’s the perfect main course for a vegetarian feast, and the preparation is surprisingly simple.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati Rice | 1-1/2 cups |
| Saffron Threads | 1/4 tsp |
| Milk | 2 tbsp |
| Cumin Seeds | 1/2 tsp |
| Fennel Seeds | 1/2 tsp |
| Cinnamon Stick | 1 inch |
| Cloves | 2 pieces |
| Salt | As per taste |
| Ghee | 2 tbsp |
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Start by thoroughly washing the basmati rice under running water to remove excess starch. Then soak the rice in water for about 15 minutes. After soaking, drain the rice and set it aside to ensure it is ready for cooking.
Step 2: Soak the Saffron
In a small saucepan, pour the milk and heat it over medium flame for about 1 minute. Once it’s warm, add the saffron threads to the milk. Stir gently to allow the saffron to release its rich color and fragrance. Set this aside for later.
Step 3: Temper the Spices
Heat the ghee in a pressure cooker on medium heat. Once the ghee has melted and is hot, add the cumin seeds, fennel seeds, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Allow the spices to sizzle and crackle for a minute or two. The aroma of these spices will fill your kitchen, giving you a preview of the flavors to come.
Step 4: Cook the Pulao
Now, add the soaked and drained rice to the cooker, stirring gently to coat the rice with the ghee and spices. Add 3 cups of water, salt to taste, and the saffron-infused milk. Stir everything gently to combine.
Step 5: Pressure Cook
Close the lid of the pressure cooker. Cook the rice on medium heat for about 2-3 whistles. Once the cooker has finished, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. Do not open the cooker immediately; allow it to rest for a few minutes to ensure the rice cooks thoroughly.
Step 6: Serve the Pulao
Once the pressure has released, open the cooker, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. The Kashmiri Kesar Pulao is now ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
This aromatic pulao pairs wonderfully with rich and hearty dishes like Kashmiri Rogan Josh, a flavorful lamb curry, or crispy Lotus Stem Cutlets. The saffron and ghee give the pulao a royal touch, making it the perfect centerpiece for any special meal.
Tips for the Perfect Kashmiri Kesar Pulao
- Rice Selection: Use aged basmati rice for the best aroma and texture. It adds a delightful fragrance and a fluffy texture that makes the pulao even more enjoyable.
- Saffron Quality: Use high-quality saffron for the most intense color and flavor. If saffron is too expensive, you can substitute it with turmeric, although the flavor won’t be the same.
- Ghee: Ghee enhances the richness of the pulao, adding depth to the flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use butter or vegetable oil instead.
- Spices: The balance of spices like cumin, fennel, cinnamon, and cloves is key to the authentic flavor. Don’t skip these steps, as they give the pulao its unique taste.
- Resting Time: Allow the rice to rest after cooking. This ensures that the grains are perfectly cooked and the saffron flavor permeates evenly throughout.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 39g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
| Sugar | 3g |
Kashmiri Kesar Pulao is an exceptional dish that brings together the essence of Kashmiri flavors in every bite. Its rich golden color, delicate taste, and aromatic fragrance will make it a standout on your dinner table. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a comforting meal, this pulao is bound to impress!
