This Shahi Pulao is also known as Mughlai Shahi Pulao because it is filled with rich and aromatic spices, nuts and dried fruit. It has a wonderful range of textures and complex flavour, making it a perfect dish on its own or with a curry. I have added only whole spices and saffron but you can absolutely add mixed vegetables too. I love this Vegetable Pulao recipe as an alternative. Shahi Pulao is perfect to serve alongside rich curries and dals and makes for a fantastic side for a Diwali Dinner Menu.
Why you will love this recipe
Fool-proof easy rice dish Vegan and Gluten-free Make ahead recipe Crowd pleasing
Shahi Pulao Ingredients
Basmati Rice Oil or ghee Chopped fresh coriander leaves Nuts and dried fruit – almonds, cashew nuts and sultanas. You can also use pistachios Saffron (soaked in 1/4 cup warm water ) Whole spices – cumin seeds, cardamom seeds, cinnamon bark, cloves Salt
How to make Shahi Pulao
Video in the recipe card below. First wash rice in cold water at least 4-5 times to remove starch, soak in cold water for half an hour. In a saute pan, heat oil and add the almonds, cashews and sultanas. Saute until they just change colour and remove from the pan. In the same oil, add the whole spices and allow to sizzle for a moment. Then add in the soaked rice and season with salt. Add in the saffron water. Pour over hot water and allow the rice to cook. Once fully cooked and fluffy, allow to sit for a few minutes with the lid on before mixing through the cooked nuts. Serve hot.
Serving Suggestion
Shahi Pulao is a wonderful accompaniment to gravy based dishes. This Palak Paneer Kofta or Shahi Paneer is a great contender. Dals such as Dal Makhani, Sultani Dal, Dishoom Black Dal or Authentic Chana Masala are also great too. Pair really well with cucumber raita.
Storage
Store leftover shahi pulao in the fridge in an airtight container. Consume within 3-4 days. You can also prepare this rice in advance and reheat prior to serving. I do not recommend freezing this rice as the rice grains loose their texture upon thawing.
Other Indian Rice Recipes
Jeera Rice Takeaway style Pilau Rice Schezwan Fried Rice Instant Pot Chana Pulao Green Peas (Matar) Pulao As always if you make this recipe, be sure to leave me a comment, rate this recipe and tag me on Instagram @jcookingodyssey or #jcookingodyssey. I love seeing all your photos of my recipe recreations! Don’t forget to follow me on social media using the buttons below – I can’t wait to see you all there!
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Note – This recipe was first published in February, 2012. The post has now been updated with more helpful content – the recipe remains the same.
