Recipe Description
Lakhnavi Pulao is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish from the Awadhi cuisine of Lucknow, known for its royal taste and rich texture. Made with basmati rice, tender meat, aromatic spices, and saffron, this dish is a symbol of the Nawabi era, offering a perfect blend of subtle flavors and elegance.
Serving Details
- Servings: 4-6
- Serving Size: 1 plate per person
Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Fat: 18 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
Ingredients
- 2 cups basmati rice (soaked for 30 minutes)
- 500 g mutton or chicken (cut into pieces)
- 1 large onion (sliced)
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 1/4 cup ghee or oil
- 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2-3 green cardamoms
- 2-3 cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon saffron (soaked in warm milk)
- 3 cups water or stock
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander and mint for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add cumin seeds, cardamoms, cloves, cinnamon, and bay leaf. Sauté for a few seconds until aromatic.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute. Add the meat and cook until it turns brown.
Step 3: Add Yogurt and Spices
Lower the heat and add yogurt, garam masala, black pepper, and salt. Cook until the oil separates and the meat is tender.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
Add the soaked rice to the pan and mix gently with the meat. Pour in water or stock, bring to a boil, and then cover and cook on low heat until the rice is fully cooked.
Step 5: Add Saffron and Garnish
Drizzle the saffron milk over the rice and let it steam for another 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh coriander and mint before serving.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of mutton?
Yes, you can substitute mutton with chicken, but reduce the cooking time as chicken cooks faster.
What can I serve with Lakhnavi Pulao?
It pairs well with raita, salad, and a side of spicy chutney or pickle.
Can I make this pulao without saffron?
Yes, saffron enhances the flavor and color, but you can skip it or use a pinch of turmeric for color.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on low heat before serving.
Can I use a pressure cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can cook the meat in a pressure cooker for faster results before adding the rice.
