Kashmiri Pulao is a fragrant rice dish cooked with aromatic spices, saffron, nuts, and dried fruits. This Kashmiri Pulao Recipe delivers a sweet and nutty rice dish perfect for festive meals, offering a unique blend of flavors and textures. The rich aroma of saffron combined with the crunch of nuts and sweetness of dried fruits makes this pulao a delightful addition to any special occasion. Whether served with a side of yogurt or a light curry, Kashmiri Pulao adds a touch of elegance to your meal.

A Fragrant and Rich Rice Dish
Kashmiri Pulao is a flavorful and aromatic rice dish from the Kashmir region of India. This Authentic Kashmiri Pulao Recipe brings together fragrant basmati rice with spices like cumin, cardamom, and cinnamon, along with a rich blend of nuts and dried fruits, making it perfect for festive occasions. The sweetness from the dried fruits and the rich texture of the nuts provide a delightful contrast to the mild spices, while saffron adds an aromatic richness that elevates the dish. Often served during special celebrations, this pulao is both a visual and culinary delight, best enjoyed with a side of yogurt or curry.
Why is it Called “Kashmiri Pulao”?
The name Kashmiri Pulao originates from the region of Kashmir in northern India, known for its rich culinary traditions and the use of aromatic spices. Unlike other pulaos, Kashmiri Pulao is known for its unique addition of dried fruits, nuts, and saffron, which give the dish its distinct sweet and nutty flavor. The use of local ingredients like Kashmiri saffron and basmati rice makes this dish a signature offering from the region, often served during festivals, weddings, and other special occasions.

How Should Kashmiri Pulao Taste?
A perfectly made Kashmiri Pulao should have a delicate balance of sweetness and mild spiciness. The rice should be fragrant with the aroma of cardamom, cinnamon, and saffron, while the nuts and dried fruits add a rich texture and subtle sweetness. The saffron gives the pulao a luxurious golden hue and an earthy flavor that complements the spices. The dish should be rich yet light, making it ideal as a main course or a festive side dish.
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It’s About How to Make It Super Yummy or Perfect
To make the Perfect Kashmiri Pulao Recipe, follow these essential tips:
- Use Aromatic Basmati Rice: Basmati rice adds fragrance and texture to the pulao. Make sure to soak it for 30 minutes to enhance its flavor and help it cook evenly.
- Saffron for Rich Flavor: Soak saffron in warm milk to release its color and aroma. This is a key ingredient that adds depth and fragrance to the dish.
- Sauté Nuts and Dried Fruits: Frying the nuts and dried fruits in ghee enhances their flavor and gives the pulao a rich, nutty texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Rice: Cook the rice until it’s 90% done to avoid mushiness. The final steaming will allow the flavors to meld perfectly without overcooking the grains.
- Serve Hot and Fresh: Kashmiri Pulao tastes best when served hot, as the flavors are more pronounced, and the texture of the rice is perfect.

Kashmiri Pulao Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot or pan
- Mixing spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Sauté pan
Ingredients
For the Pulao:
- 1 cup basmati rice (soaked for 30 minutes)
- 2 tbsp ghee or oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cloves
- 1 inch cinnamon stick
- 2 green cardamom pods
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 medium onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 tsp saffron threads (soaked in 2 tablespoons warm milk)
- 1/4 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts)
- 1/4 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, dried apricots, cranberries)
- 2 cups water
- salt to taste
For Garnishing:
- 2 tbsp pomegranate seeds
- Fresh coriander leaves (chopped)
Instructions
- 1. Cook the RiceWash and soak the basmati rice for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.In a large pot, heat 2 cups of water with a pinch of salt. Once the water boils, add the soaked rice and cook until it is about 90% done (the grains should be soft but not mushy).Drain any excess water and set the cooked rice aside.2. Sauté the Nuts and Dried FruitsIn a separate sauté pan, heat a tablespoon of ghee or oil. Add the mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts) and fry until golden brown.Add the dried fruits (raisins, apricots, cranberries) and sauté until they puff up. Remove the nuts and fruits from the pan and set aside.3. Prepare the TemperingIn the same large pot or pan, heat the remaining ghee. Add the cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cloves, and cardamom pods. Sauté for a minute until the spices release their aroma.Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.4. Combine and CookAdd the cooked rice to the pan with the sautéed onions and spices. Gently mix to combine.Pour in the saffron-infused milk and carefully fold it into the rice to distribute the saffron color and flavor.Add the sautéed nuts and dried fruits, mix gently, and cover the pan. Let the rice steam on low heat for about 5 minutes to absorb all the flavors.5. Garnish and ServeOnce the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds and chopped coriander leaves.Serve hot with yogurt or any curry of your choice.
Notes
- Rice Cooking Tip: Make sure the rice is only 90% cooked before mixing it with the spices. Overcooking can result in mushy rice.
- Saffron: Soaking the saffron threads in warm milk enhances the color and flavor of the pulao. You can also substitute saffron with a pinch of turmeric if needed.
- Nuts and Dried Fruits: Feel free to customize the nuts and dried fruits according to your preference. Pistachios, figs, or dates are great additions.
- Vegan Option: To make this pulao vegan, substitute ghee with vegetable oil or coconut oil.
- Pairing Suggestions: Kashmiri Pulao pairs beautifully with yogurt, raita, or a light curry like paneer or chicken curry.
Conclusion
This Authentic Kashmiri Pulao Recipe is a fragrant, rich, and flavorful rice dish that’s perfect for festive occasions or family gatherings. With its combination of basmati rice, aromatic spices, saffron, nuts, and dried fruits, Kashmiri Pulao brings a touch of luxury to any meal. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this pulao offers a delightful balance of sweetness and spice that will impress your guests and leave them craving more. Easy to make and visually stunning, Kashmiri Pulao is the perfect dish for celebrating special moments.