Kesar Pulao – A Royal Touch to Your Plate

Kesar Pulao – A Royal Touch to Your Plate

When you think of festive Indian meals or traditional celebrations, a golden, aromatic rice dish often takes center stage. That dish is Kesar Pulao, also known as Saffron Rice — a blend of fragrant basmati rice, warm spices, and the luxurious essence of saffron. It's not only pleasing to the senses but also brings a touch of royalty to any occasion.

What Makes Saffron So Special?

Saffron, or kesar, is one of the most precious spices in the world. Its fine red threads release a beautiful golden color and subtle floral aroma when soaked in warm milk or water. Apart from its culinary charm, saffron is known for health benefits too — it may support mood balance, digestion, and overall well-being thanks to its natural antioxidants.

Ingredients for Kesar Pulao

To make this delightful dish, you’ll need:

• 1 cup long-grain basmati rice
• 8–10 strands of SaffronTree Saffron
• 1 tablespoon warm milk
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2–3 cloves
• 1 bay leaf
• A handful of cashews and raisins
• Salt to taste
• A pinch of sugar (optional)

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Soak the SaffronTree (Saffron)
Begin by soaking the saffron strands in a tablespoon of warm milk. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to release its full color and aroma.

2. Prepare the Rice
Wash the rice thoroughly and soak it for about 20 minutes. Then cook it in boiling water until it's around 90% done. Drain and keep aside.

3. Cook the Spices
Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add the cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaf. Let them sizzle for a few seconds until aromatic.

4. Toast the Nuts and Raisins
Add cashews and raisins to the pan. Fry them gently until the cashews are golden and the raisins puff up.

5. Mix in the Rice
Add the partially cooked rice to the pan. Pour in the saffron-infused milk. Add salt and a pinch of sugar if desired. Mix gently to avoid breaking the rice grains.

6. Steam and Finish
Cover the pan with a tight lid and cook on low heat for 5–7 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend perfectly and the rice to finish cooking.

What to Serve With Kesar Pulao

Kesar Pulao pairs beautifully with rich, flavorful dishes such as:

• Paneer Butter Masala
• Mixed Vegetable Curry
• Chicken Gravy
• Dal Tadka or Dal Makhani

For an elegant presentation, garnish with a few saffron strands and slivered nuts.

A Golden Experience

More than just a rice dish, Kesar Pulao is a celebration of color, flavor, and tradition. Whether you're cooking for a festive gathering or simply want to elevate your everyday meal, this aromatic pulao is sure to impress.