Kashmiri Pulao Recipe -Authentic Saffron Rice Pulao

"Make fragrant Kashmiri Pulao with saffron, dried fruits, and spices. An aromatic rice dish perfect for festive occasions and royal-style meals."

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 3-4

Authentic Saffron Rice Pulao

Favourite Indian vegetarian recipe for Lunch and Dinner - Kashmiri Pulao is a fragrant, mildly sweet rice Indian dish infused with saffron and enriched with dry fruits. Unlike traditional savoury pulao, this version embraces subtle sweetness, making it a delightful contrast to spicy curries. A beloved dish from Kashmiri cuisine, it pairs beautifully with meat-based curries or a refreshing tomato-onion raita.

Ingredients

For the Pulao: 

• 1 cup Basmati rice, soaked for 30 minutes

• 2 cups water

• 2 tablespoons ghee

• ½ teaspoon shahi jeera (caraway seeds)

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 2 green cardamom pods

• 2 cloves

• 1 bay leaf

• ½ teaspoon fennel powder

• ½ teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (optional, for mild spice)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 8-10 strands saffron, soaked in 2 tablespoons warm milk

Preparation of Kashmiri Pulao Rice

For Garnish: 

• ¼ cup cashews, lightly toasted

• ¼ cup almonds, slivered

• ¼ cup raisins

• 2 tablespoons pistachios, chopped

• ½ cup fried onions

• ½ cup pomegranate seeds (optional)

Step by Step process of Cooking Kashmiri Polau Rice

Garnishing Kashmiri Pulao Rice

What Is Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Step 1: 

Prepare the Rice Rinse the Basmati rice until water runs clear. Soak for 30 minutes, then drain to remove excess starch.
Warm milk and soak saffron strands for 5-10 minutes to extract flavour.

Step 2:

Temper the Spices Heat ghee in a pan over medium heat.
Add shahi jeera, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and bay leaf fry for 30 seconds until aromatic.

Step 3: 

Cook the Rice Add fennel powder, red chilli powder (if using), and drained rice to the pan. Stir gently to coat the rice with spices and ghee.
Pour in 2 cups water, add salt, and mix well. Cover and simmer on low heat for 10-12 minutes, or until rice is fluffy.
Drizzle soaked saffron milk over the rice, cover, and let it rest for another 5 minutes.

Step 4:

Garnishing & Serving Heat ghee in a small pan and lightly toast the cashews, almonds, raisins, and pistachios.
Layer the pulao with fried onions, toasted dry fruits, and pomegranate seeds (if using).
Serve warm with mirch ka salan or a chilled tomato-onion raita.

Serving & Pairing Suggestions Traditional Pairing: Kashmiri Pulao is best enjoyed with spicy curries like Mirch Ka Salan or a classic Rogan Josh.
Vegetable Additions: While the authentic recipe omits vegetables, you can include carrots, peas, or potatoes for a richer texture.
Lunch Box Idea: This pulao is an excellent lunch box meal, loved by kids and adults alike!

Kashmiri Pulao Variations

🌿 Savory Version: Skip raisins and nuts, add finely chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, and beans along with garam masala.
🔥 Spicy Twist: Increase the amount of Kashmiri red chili powder or add green chilies for heat.
🥄 Royal Touch: Incorporate rose water or sugar for an extra fragrant and luxurious taste.

Final Tips for Perfect Kashmiri Pulao

✅ Use high-quality Basmati rice to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
✅ Soaking rice before cooking speeds up cooking time and enhances its fragrance.
✅ Balance sweetness with mild spice—adjust the dry fruits and red chilli powder to your preference.
✅ Avoid over-mixing once cooked, to retain the delicate long-grain structure.
✅ Saffron infusion is key—let the strands soak in warm milk to extract their full aroma and colour.

Nutritional Benefits of Kashmiri Pulao

This dish is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients:
💡 Basmati Rice: Low in fat and easy to digest.
💡 Dry Fruits: Almonds, cashews, and pistachios provide healthy fats and energy.
💡 Saffron: Contains antioxidants that boost immunity and improve mood.

"Kashmiri Pulao is a rich, aromatic rice dish infused with saffron, dry fruits, and warm spices. It’s traditionally served during celebrations and pairs beautifully with yogurt or spicy curry."