Saffron Rice (Kesar Pulao)

Fragrant basmati rice cooked with saffron, whole spices, and mixed vegetables, creating a vibrant and aromatic dish perfect for special occasions.

Category: Vegetarian, Rice Dish, Indian Cuisine

Cooking Preparation

General

Serves: 4

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Type: Main Course

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

Calories: 250 kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 500mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

1 cup basmati rice, washed and soaked for 30 minutes
1 onion, thinly sliced
1 carrot, diced
1/2 cup green peas
1/2 cup mixed bell peppers, diced
1/4 cup cashews, halved
2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
1 cinnamon stick
4-5 cloves
2-3 green cardamom pods
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
A pinch of saffron strands, soaked in 2 tablespoons of warm milk
Salt to taste
2 cups water

Preparation Guide

Heat ghee in a deep pan or pot over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom pods, and bay leaf. Saute for a minute until fragrant.
Add the sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
Add the diced carrots, green peas, and mixed bell peppers. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot. Stir well to coat the rice with the vegetables and spices.
Pour in the soaked saffron along with the milk. Add salt to taste and mix gently.
Pour water into the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
Once done, fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with halved cashews.
Serve hot as a flavorful accompaniment to your favorite Indian curries or enjoy it on its own.

Chef's Tips

Soaking the rice helps in achieving fluffy and separated grains.
Adjust the quantity of saffron according to your preference for color and flavor intensity.
You can customize the vegetables according to your taste and availability.
For added richness, you can replace water with vegetable broth or coconut milk.

RECIPE DISCLAIMER

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