Fragrant Spiced Pulao with Sultanas
Delight in the aromatic blend of spices and textures with this Fragrant Spiced Pulao with Sultanas. This delightful Indian rice dish, rich with savory notes, is a perfect complement to curries and other dishes. The warmth of garam masala, the sweetness of sultanas, and the aromatic spices create a beautiful harmony that enhances any meal. Quick and easy to prepare, this pulao makes for an excellent side dish or a satisfying main course on its own. Enjoy the vibrant colors and heritage of Indian cuisine right in your home!
2
Servings
300
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
peanut oil
1 (teaspoon)
onion
1 (small, chopped)
garam masala
1 (teaspoon)
turmeric
1 (teaspoon)
garlic clove
1 (chopped)
fresh gingerroot
1 (teaspoon, chopped)
cardamom pods
4
star anise
1
cloves
3
rice
150 (g)
sultanas
4 (tablespoons)
chicken or vegetable stock
500 (ml)
seasoning
(to taste)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, heat the peanut oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it's softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2
Stir in the garam masala, turmeric, garlic, ginger, cardamom pods, star anise, and cloves. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant. Be careful not to let them burn.
3
Add the rice to the saucepan and stir well to coat the grains with the spices. Incorporate the sultanas into the mixture for a touch of natural sweetness.
4
Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, ensuring the rice is evenly submerged. Stir gently to mix everything together.
5
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan. Allow it to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, checking occasionally for doneness. The rice should absorb all the liquid and be tender.
6
Once cooked, if there is excess stock, carefully drain it off. Fluff the rice with a fork, season to taste, and serve warm.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fragrant Spiced Pulao with Sultanas?
It is a delightful Indian rice dish enriched with aromatic spices like garam masala, turmeric, and cardamom, featuring sweet sultanas for a balanced flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, as long as you use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, this recipe is entirely vegetarian.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to make 2 servings.
What type of oil is recommended for this pulao?
The recipe calls for one teaspoon of peanut oil to sauté the onions and spices.
How long does the rice need to simmer?
The rice should simmer on low heat for approximately 10 to 15 minutes until all liquid is absorbed.
Can I substitute the chicken stock?
Yes, you can use either chicken or vegetable stock based on your dietary preference.
What spices are included in this dish?
The spice blend includes garam masala, turmeric, garlic, ginger, cardamom pods, star anise, and cloves.
How should the onion be prepared?
The recipe requires one small onion to be chopped and sautéed until softened and translucent.
What is the purpose of adding sultanas?
Sultanas are added to provide a touch of natural sweetness that complements the savory spices.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 300 calories per serving.
What type of rice is used?
The recipe specifies 150 grams of rice, though it is typically made with long-grain or basmati rice for pulao.
Do I need to use fresh ginger?
Yes, the recipe calls for one teaspoon of chopped fresh gingerroot for the best aromatic flavor.
How many cardamom pods are needed?
You will need 4 cardamom pods for this recipe.
What should I do if there is leftover stock in the pan?
If there is excess stock after the rice is tender, carefully drain it off before fluffing the rice.
Is this a quick meal to prepare?
Yes, it is described as a quick and easy recipe, perfect for a side dish or a light main course.
What is the first step in making this pulao?
The first step is to heat the peanut oil in a medium saucepan and sauté the chopped onion for about 5 minutes.
How do I ensure the spices don't burn?
Cook the spices for only 1-2 minutes until fragrant and be careful to monitor the heat.
Should the rice be coated in spices before adding liquid?
Yes, add the rice to the saucepan and stir well to coat the grains with the spice mixture before pouring in the stock.
What is the recommended way to serve the rice?
Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork, season to taste, and serve it while it is warm.
How much stock is required?
The recipe requires 500 ml of chicken or vegetable stock.
What does star anise add to the dish?
Star anise contributes a distinct, sweet-spicy aromatic note to the rice.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
The recipe calls for one chopped garlic clove for the most authentic flavor.
How much garam masala should I add?
You should use one teaspoon of garam masala.
What is the role of turmeric in this recipe?
Turmeric provides a vibrant yellow color and a subtle earthy flavor to the pulao.
Is this dish spicy hot?
It is aromatic and spiced rather than 'hot', as it uses warming spices like cardamom and cloves rather than chili peppers.
How many cloves are used?
The recipe uses 3 cloves.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 13 total ingredients in this recipe.
Can this pulao be served with curry?
Absolutely, it is a perfect complement to curries and other savory Indian dishes.
Do I need to wash the rice?
While not explicitly stated in these instructions, washing rice is a common practice to remove excess starch before cooking pulao.
Should the pot be covered during simmering?
Yes, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan while the rice simmers.