Indian Rice (Pulao)

Saffron threads lend a deep, golden color to this spice infused, Indian rice dish.

• Preparation Time: 30 mins
• Cooking Time: 40 mins
• Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins
• Calories: 267 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 6 cups boiling water
• 4 whole cloves
• 2 tablespoons ground cumin
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 2 (1 inch) pieces cinnamon stick
• 10 cardamom seeds
• 0.5 cup vegetable shortening
• 0.25 teaspoon saffron threads or ground turmeric
• 4.5 cups long-grain white rice

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Place saffron threads into boiling water, set aside to steep.

Step 2

Melt the vegetable shortening in a large pot over medium-high heat. Stir in the onions, and cook until golden, about 5 minutes. Season with cinnamon sticks, cloves, ginger, cumin, garlic powder, and cardamom seeds. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes to release the flavor, stirring constantly.

Step 3

Pour in the rice and cook for 10 minutes, stirring constantly. Add the yogurt, saffron water, and salt. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover pot with a cloth folded into 4 layers. Place a lid over the cloth and cook until the rice is done, about 20 minutes. Remove the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and cardamom seeds before serving.