Shahi Pulao is the perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a regal dish. Whether you’re planning a celebration or simply want to enjoy a royal meal at home, this pulao is a must-try.
🌟 IntroductionLooking to elevate your regular rice dish into something rich, fragrant, and absolutely royal? Try this Shahi Pulao – a Mughlai-style rice preparation filled with aromatic spices, nuts, vegetables, and a touch of saffron. It’s perfect for festive occasions, parties, or whenever you feel like treating yourself to something luxurious.This royal pulao gets its name from the word “Shahi,” meaning royal, and true to its name, it’s a dish fit for kings and queens!
Servings: 4
Cost: 150
Ingredients
For the Pulao:
- 1½ cups basmati rice
- 2 tbsp ghee or oil
- 1 bay leaf 4 cloves, 4 green cardamoms, 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp shahi jeera caraway seeds
- 1 large onion thinly sliced
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- ½ cup carrots diced
- ½ cup beans chopped
- ¼ cup green peas
- ¼ cup paneer cubes lightly fried, optional
- ¼ cup cashews and raisins
- ½ tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
For Garnish & Aroma:
- A pinch of saffron strands soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk
- Fresh coriander and mint leaves chopped
- Fried onions optional
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
- Rinse and soak basmati rice for 20 minutes. Drain before cooking.
- Cook rice until it’s 90% done, then drain and keep aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables & Masala
- Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan or pot.
- Add whole spices (bay leaf, cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, shahi jeera).
- Add sliced onions and sauté till golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste, sauté till raw smell goes.
- Add chopped vegetables and cook for 5–7 minutes. Add salt and garam masala.
Step 3: Assemble the Shahi Pulao
- Add cooked rice over the vegetables layer.
- Drizzle saffron milk on top. Add fried cashews, raisins, paneer cubes, mint, and coriander.
- Cover and cook on low flame for 10–12 minutes (dum method).
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with raita or shahi paneer, veg kofta curry, or dal makhani
- Add a slice of lemon or a side salad for freshness
- Pairs wonderfully with mint chutney or pickle
💡 Tips & Variations
- Want a vegan version? Skip paneer and use oil instead of ghee
- Add dried fruits like almonds and pistachios for added richness
- Use rose water or kewra water for a floral aroma
- Try using coconut milk in place of water for a subtle twist