Kashmiri Pulao Recipe | Modur Pulao | Saffron Spiced Rice with Whole Spices & Nuts
Description
Dive into the flavors of authentic Kashmiri cuisine with the exquisite Kashmiri Modur Pulao. This dish is an aromatic, saffron-infused rice preparation bursting with the richness of whole spices, dry fruits, and nuts. Perfect for celebrations or an indulgent family dinner, this vegetarian delight brings a hint of royal Kashmiri heritage to your table. Its luxurious flavor profile pairs beautifully with creamy curries and refreshing raitas, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
Recipe Overview
Cuisine: Kashmiri
Course: Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati rice | 1 cup (soaked for 45 minutes, then drained) |
| Ghee | 2 tablespoons |
| Ginger (thinly sliced) | 1 inch |
| Green Chillies (slit) | 2 |
| Ajwain (Carom seeds) | 1 teaspoon |
| Fennel seeds (Saunf) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini) | 1 inch |
| Brown Cardamom (Badi Elaichi) | 2 |
| Green Cardamom Pods (Elaichi) | 3 |
| Cloves (Laung) | 3 |
| Bay Leaf (Tej Patta) | 1 |
| Dry Ginger Powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Kashmiri Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Cashew Nuts (roughly broken) | 1 tablespoon |
| Whole Almonds (chopped) | 1 tablespoon |
| Walnuts (chopped) | 1 tablespoon |
| Sultana Raisins | 1 tablespoon |
| Pistachios (chopped) | 1 tablespoon |
| Saffron Strands | 2 pinches |
| Milk | ¼ cup |
| Water | 1¼ cups |
| Salt | To taste |
| Apples (diced, for garnish) | ¼ cup |
| Pineapple (diced, for garnish) | ¼ cup |
For Caramelized Onions
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Onions (thinly sliced) | 2 |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 48 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 320 mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Rice
- Wash and soak the basmati rice for 45 minutes. After soaking, drain and set aside.
- Warm the milk slightly and soak the saffron strands in it. Let the saffron infuse while you prepare the remaining ingredients.
-
Caramelize the Onions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions.
- Cook on low to medium heat, stirring frequently, until the onions turn golden and caramelized. This process takes about 35–45 minutes. Once done, set aside.
-
Cook the Pulao
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee.
- Add the bay leaf, fennel seeds, ajwain, brown cardamom, green cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon stick. Sauté until the spices release their aroma.
- Add the cashews and fry for a minute until golden.
- Mix in the sliced ginger, dry ginger powder, Kashmiri red chili powder, and the drained rice. Stir gently for a few seconds to coat the rice with the spices.
- Pour in the saffron-infused milk, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it cook until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender (about 15 minutes).
-
Roast the Nuts
- In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Roast the almonds, walnuts, raisins, and pistachios until they are lightly golden. Remove from heat and set aside.
-
Combine and Garnish
- Once the rice is cooked, gently fluff it with a fork. Add the roasted nuts and mix lightly.
- Transfer the pulao to a serving platter.
- Garnish with caramelized onions, diced apples, and pineapple for a burst of sweetness and color.
-
Serve
- Serve the Kashmiri Modur Pulao hot with Paneer Tikka Masala, Butter Naan, and a refreshing Mint Raita for a complete Kashmiri-inspired dinner.
Pro Tips
- Choose Premium Quality Rice: Use long-grain basmati rice for the best texture and aroma.
- Even Cooking: Soak the rice to ensure even cooking and to prevent it from breaking during the process.
- Customizations: Add pomegranate seeds or fresh coconut slices for additional texture and flavor.
With its medley of spices, dried fruits, and nuts, Kashmiri Modur Pulao is a dish that perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and aromatic flavors. This recipe is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire!
