Shahi Kesar Pulao Recipe

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on preparing the delectable Shahi Kesar Pulao Recipe, a dish that combines the richness of Mughlai cuisine with the aromatic flavors of Indian spices. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating this royal delicacy right in your own kitchen. Shahi Pulao is a dish fit for royalty, and by the end of this guide, you’ll be able to prepare it with finesse and confidence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To craft the perfect Shahi Kesar Pulao Recipe, you’ll require the following ingredients:

For the Rice:

1 cup Basmati rice

2 cups water

1 bay leaf

2-3 cloves

2-3 green cardamom pods

A pinch of IKS saffron strands soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk

For the Shahi Gravy:

1/2 cup sliced onions

1/2 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans)

1/4 cup cashew nuts

1/4 cup raisins

1/4 cup fresh cream

2 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)

1/2 tsp cumin seeds

1-inch cinnamon stick

2-3 cloves

2-3 green cardamom pods

1/2 tsp ginger-garlic paste

1/2 tsp red chili powder

1/2 tsp garam masala

Salt to taste

For Garnish:

Chopped coriander leaves

Fried onions

IKS Saffron strands soaked in warm milk

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Rice

Wash the Basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch.

In a large pot, add 2 cups of water and bring it to a boil.

Add the washed rice, bay leaf, cloves, and green cardamom pods to the boiling water.

Cook the rice until it’s 70-80% done, ensuring it’s slightly firm to the bite. Drain the rice and set it aside.

Infuse the saffron strands in warm milk and set it aside for later use.

Step 2: Making the Shahi Gravy

Heat ghee in a deep pan, and add cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, cloves, and green cardamom pods. Sauté them until fragrant.

Add sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw aroma disappears.

Stir in the mixed vegetables, cashew nuts, and raisins. Sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Add red chili powder, garam masala, and a pinch of salt. Cook for another couple of minutes.

Pour in the fresh cream and mix well. Allow the mixture to simmer until it thickens.

Step 3: Assembling the Shahi Pulao

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, layer half of the partially cooked rice.

Sprinkle some saffron milk over the rice for a beautiful color and aroma.

Carefully spoon the prepared Shahi gravy over the rice layer.

Add the remaining rice on top of the gravy.

Garnish with chopped coriander leaves, fried onions, and more saffron milk.

Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Serving Your Shahi Pulao

Your Shahi Pulao is now ready to be served. This exquisite dish can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with a refreshing raita or salad. The combination of aromatic spices, creamy gravy, and tender rice will leave your taste buds in awe.

Conclusion

In this comprehensive guide, we’ve unveiled the secrets to creating an irresistible Shahi Kesar Pulao. With the right ingredients and careful execution, you can prepare this regal dish to perfection. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to a special meal, Shahi Pulao is a culinary masterpiece that will never disappoint. Try it today and savor the royal flavors of Indian cuisine like never before.