Modur Pulav
A fragrant Kashmiri specialty, this sweet pulao is a symphony of flavors. Basmati rice is cooked with milk, sugar, and saffron, then studded with crunchy nuts and sweet dried fruits. A truly royal dish for special occasions.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Rice and Saffron (20 minutes)
- b.Gently rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak it in fresh water for 20 minutes, then drain completely in a colander.
- c.While the rice soaks, lightly crush the saffron strands and soak them in 2 tablespoons of warm milk. Set aside to allow the color and flavor to infuse.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté Nuts and Spices (5 minutes)
- b.Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- c.Add the almonds and cashews. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until they turn a light golden brown. Remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- d.In the same ghee, add the whole spices: green cardamoms, cloves, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf. Sauté for 30-45 seconds until they become fragrant.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Pulav (5 minutes)
- b.Add the drained rice to the pot. Gently stir-fry for 2 minutes, being careful not to break the delicate grains. This step helps keep the grains separate.
- c.Pour in the whole milk and water. Add the sugar and salt. Give it one gentle stir to combine everything.
- d.Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Simmer and Steam (15 minutes)
- b.As soon as it starts boiling, reduce the heat to the lowest possible setting. Drizzle the saffron-infused milk evenly over the rice.
- c.Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. To ensure a tight seal, you can place a clean kitchen towel under the lid.
- d.Cook undisturbed for 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Rest and Garnish (10 minutes)
- b.Turn off the heat and let the pulav rest, still covered, for at least 10 minutes. This step is crucial for fluffy, perfectly cooked rice.
- c.Uncover the pot. Add the fried nuts and raisins.
- d.Gently fluff the rice with a fork, mixing in the nuts and raisins. Serve warm.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use aged, long-grain basmati rice for the best texture and aroma. It absorbs flavors well and the grains remain separate.
- 2A heavy-bottomed pan is crucial to prevent the milk and sugar from catching and burning at the bottom.
- 3Do not skip the 10-minute resting time after cooking. It allows the steam to distribute evenly and makes the grains perfectly fluffy.
- 4For a more intense saffron color and flavor, gently crush the strands between your fingers before soaking them in warm milk.
- 5Fry the nuts on low-medium heat until just golden. They can burn very quickly, so watch them carefully.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Replace ghee with coconut oil or another neutral vegetable oil. Substitute the whole milk with full-fat coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free version.
Nut FreeNut-Free
Omit the almonds and cashews. You can add 2 tablespoons of toasted melon seeds (magaz) or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.
Richer FlavorRicher Flavor
For an even richer, more decadent pulav, crumble and add 2-3 tablespoons of khoya (milk solids) when you fluff the rice at the end.
Added FruitsAdded Fruits
Incorporate other dried fruits like chopped dried apricots or dates along with the raisins for more complex sweetness and texture.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Provides Quick Energy
The combination of carbohydrates from rice and sugar offers a rapid source of energy, making it a satisfying and fulfilling dish.
Rich in Antioxidants
Saffron is a potent antioxidant known for its potential to protect against oxidative stress and improve mood.
Source of Healthy Fats
Almonds and cashews contribute monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health, along with essential minerals like magnesium and copper.
Bone Health Support
The use of whole milk provides a good source of calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Modur Pulav contains approximately 550-650 calories, primarily from the rice, sugar, milk, and ghee. The exact count can vary based on the specific ingredients used.