Introduction
Experience the rich flavors of traditional Kashmiri cuisine with this luxurious Kashmiri Dry Fruit Pulao recipe. This elegant rice dish combines premium basmati rice with saffron, aromatic spices, creamy milk, and a variety of roasted dry fruits to create a royal feast full of fragrance and flavor.
Unlike spicy rice dishes, this pulao delivers a mild, slightly sweet, and buttery taste that pairs beautifully with curries, grilled meats, or festive meals. The colorful presentation, fluffy rice texture, and rich aroma make it a perfect choice for weddings, celebrations, and special family dinners.
Ingredients
For Rice
- 3 cups premium basmati rice
- Water for soaking
- 1 tbsp salt
- Pinch of saffron
Dry Fruits & Nuts
- ¼ cup almonds
- ¼ cup cashews
- ¼ cup pistachios
- ¼ cup raisins
- 2 tbsp chopped dates
Aromatic Spices
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 green cardamoms
- 4 cloves
- 2 bay leaves
Other Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter or ghee
- 1 onion (thinly sliced)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp sugar
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions
Step 1 – Soak the Rice
Wash and soak basmati rice for 30 minutes.
Soak saffron in warm milk and set aside.
Step 2 – Fry the Nuts
Heat butter or ghee in a pan.
Lightly roast almonds, cashews, pistachios, raisins, and chopped dates until golden and aromatic.
Remove and set aside.
Step 3 – Prepare the Rice Base
In the same pot, sauté sliced onions until golden brown.
Add cinnamon sticks, cardamoms, cloves, and bay leaves. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4 – Cook the Rice
Add soaked rice and gently mix.
Pour water and salt into the pot and cook on medium heat until the rice is nearly done.
Step 5 – Add the Royal Flavor
Pour saffron milk over the rice.
Add sugar and roasted dry fruits.
Cover tightly and steam on low heat for 10–15 minutes until fluffy and aromatic.
Step 6 – Final Presentation
Fluff the rice carefully and transfer to a serving platter.
Garnish with extra nuts, raisins, and fresh coriander.
Serving Suggestion
Serve hot with chicken curry, grilled kebabs, yogurt sauce, or enjoy it alone as a festive rice delicacy.
Cooking Tips
- Use extra-long grain basmati rice for the best royal presentation.
- Cook on low steam to maintain fluffy grains.
- Add rose water or kewra essence for extra aroma.
