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Kabuli Pulao Afghan Rice

Delicious Kabuli Pulao Afghan Rice: A Taste of Tradition

Kabuli Pulao Afghan Rice is a traditional dish that combines tender lamb, fragrant basmati rice, and vibrant toppings, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Afghan
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Rice
  • 2 cups Basmati Rice Sella basmati preferred for fluffiness.
For the Meat
  • 1-1.5 pounds Lamb Shank Can substitute with beef shank or boneless stewing lamb.
For the Spice Blend
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds May substitute with black caraway seeds.
  • 2 pieces Cardamom Pods Use whole for freshness.
For the Base
  • 1 large Onion Preferably Vidalia for sweetness.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Finely grated for better infusion.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 pinch Black Pepper
For the Toppings
  • 1/2 cup Almonds Can substitute with cashews or pistachios.
  • 1 cup Carrots Shredded.
  • 1/2 cup Raisins Soaked for a plump texture.
For Caramelization
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar Used for caramelizing carrots.
  • 1 tablespoon Ghee Optional for richness.

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed pot
  • colander
  • Spice grinder
  • Skillet
  • Measuring cups
  • Spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Wash basmati rice under cold water, soak for 30 minutes, then drain.
  2. Combine cumin seeds, cardamom pods, cloves, and cinnamon. Grind to a fine powder.
  3. Heat oil in a pot, sauté finely chopped onion, then add lamb and sear until browned.
  4. Add garlic, spice blend, salt, and pepper to lamb. Pour in water, boil, then simmer for 60-90 minutes.
  5. Toast almonds, sauté carrots in ghee, and briefly sauté raisins.
  6. Remove lamb, measure broth, bring to a boil, stir in rice, layer lamb, carrots, and raisins on top.
  7. Cover and steam for 20-25 minutes until rice is fluffy.
  8. Fluff rice with a fork, garnish with almonds, carrots, and raisins, and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Kabuli Pulao Afghan Rice is perfect for family gatherings or festive celebrations, symbolizing Afghan hospitality.

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