Kashmiri Kesar Pulao – Saffron Fennel Rice Recipe
The Perfect Blend of Aromatic Flavors for a Royal Meal
Introduction
The Kashmiri Kesar Pulao, or Saffron Fennel Rice, is a delicately flavored dish that captures the essence of Kashmiri cuisine. This vegetarian rice recipe is infused with the enchanting aroma of saffron, fennel seeds, and spices like cinnamon and cloves. It is a perfect accompaniment to rich Kashmiri gravies like Rogan Josh and Nadir Monjvor, making it ideal for festive occasions or a special weekend meal.
Recipe Details
| Cuisine | Kashmiri |
|---|---|
| Course | Main Course |
| Diet | Vegetarian |
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings | 4 people |
Ingredients
The ingredients for this delightful rice dish are simple yet packed with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | 1 ½ cups |
| Saffron strands | ¼ teaspoon |
| Milk | 2 tablespoons |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | ½ teaspoon |
| Fennel seeds (Saunf) | ½ teaspoon |
| Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini) | 1 inch |
| Cloves (Laung) | 2 pieces |
| Salt | To taste |
| Ghee | 2 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 240 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Sodium | 320 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s walk you through the process of making this flavorful Kashmiri Kesar Pulao:
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| 1 | Wash the rice thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 15 minutes. Drain the water after soaking. |
| 2 | Heat the milk in a microwave-safe bowl for about a minute. Add the saffron strands to the warm milk and let it sit for a few minutes. This helps release the vibrant color and aroma of the saffron. |
| 3 | Heat ghee in a pressure cooker over medium flame. Once the ghee is hot, add cumin seeds, fennel seeds, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Sauté until they release their aroma and begin to sizzle. |
| 4 | Add the soaked and drained rice to the cooker. Stir gently to coat the rice with the spices and ghee. |
| 5 | Pour in 3 cups of water, add salt to taste, and mix in the saffron-infused milk. Stir to combine all the ingredients evenly. |
| 6 | Close the lid of the pressure cooker. Cook the pulao on medium heat for 2-3 whistles, then turn off the flame. Allow the pressure to release naturally before opening the cooker. |
| 7 | Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Transfer the Kashmiri Kesar Pulao to a serving dish. |
Serving Suggestions
The Kashmiri Kesar Pulao pairs beautifully with a variety of Kashmiri dishes, creating a royal dining experience. Consider serving it alongside:
- Kashmiri Rogan Josh – A flavorful lamb curry infused with spices.
- Nadir Monjvor – Lotus Stem Cutlets for a crispy, savory side.
- A dollop of plain yogurt or raita to balance the flavors.
Tips for Perfect Pulao
- Rice Selection: Use long-grain Basmati rice for the best texture and aroma.
- Soaking Time: Don’t skip soaking the rice; it helps in cooking evenly and prevents clumping.
- Saffron Quality: Invest in good-quality saffron strands for vibrant color and authentic flavor.
- Pressure Cooker Timing: Be cautious with the cooking time to avoid overcooking the rice.
Make your next meal unforgettable with this aromatic Kashmiri Kesar Pulao. It’s a dish that turns a simple dinner into a grand feast!
