Afghan kabuli pulao recipe

Introduction

Kabuli Pulao, also known as Qubali Palaw, is a popular rice dish famous for its rich flavor and elegant presentation. This culinary delight combines tender meat with basmati rice, sweet carrots, raisins and a harmonious blend of spices and makes a great centerpiece for any dinner. Serve with a side salad or yogurt for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For the rice:

  • 3 cups basmati rice
  • 6 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons salt

For the meat:

  • 500 g lamb or beef, diced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves of garlic, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 teaspoon each of ground black pepper, cumin, coriander, cardamom and cinnamon
  • 4 cups of water

For the topping:

  • 2 large carrots, cut into strips
  • 1/2 cup each of raisins and sliced almonds
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons sugar

Garnish:

  • Chopped coriander or parsley

Preparation

Prepare the rice

  1. Rinse and soak the rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in salted water for 30 minutes, then drain.
  2. Cook the rice: Bring 6 cups of water to the boil in a pan. Add the soaked rice and cook for about 7-8 minutes until half cooked. Drain and set aside.


Cook the meat

  1. Heat the oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a robust saucepan over a medium heat. Sauté the chopped onions until browned.
  2. Add the garlic and meat: Add the garlic and sauté for another minute. Add the diced meat and brown on all sides.
  3. Season and leave to simmer: Season with salt, black pepper, cumin, coriander, cardamom and cinnamon. Mix well. Add 4 cups of water, bring to the boil, then reduce the heat, cover and simmer for 1.5 hours until the meat is tender and the liquid has reduced.


Prepare the topping

  1. Sauté the carrots: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a frying pan over a medium heat. Sauté the carrot strips until soft.
  2. Add the raisins: Add the raisins and continue to sauté until they soften. Optionally, add the sugar and stir well. Set aside.


Assemble the kabuli pulao

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 175°C.
  2. Mix the meat and rice: Mix the meat evenly with the cooked rice in a saucepan.
  3. Bake: Cover the pot tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.


Serve

  1. Transfer to serving dish: Transfer the finished kabuli pulao to a serving dish.
  2. Top with carrots and raisins: Den Reis mit den angebratenen Karotten und Rosinen belegen. Gehobelte Mandeln für zusätzlichen Crunch darüberstreuen.
  3. Garnish: Garnish with chopped coriander or parsley. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.


Enjoy this delicious Afghani dish that is a slice of culinary heaven.

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