Mutton Pulao, also known as Goat or Lamb Pulao, is a delectable rice dish that tantalizes the senses with its aromatic flavors and tender meat. This classic Pakistani and Indian recipe combines succulent pieces of mutton with fragrant basmati rice infused with a harmonious blend of spices and herbs.
Whether it’s a festive occasion, a family gathering, or simply a special meal, Mutton Pulao is sure to impress with its rich taste and delightful textures. Follow this recipe to create an unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients of Mutton Pulao
- 500 grams mutton (goat or lamb), cut into pieces
- 2 cups basmati rice, washed and soaked for 30 minutes
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 4 green chilies, slit lengthwise
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 4 green cardamom pods
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 cloves
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Ghee or cooking oil
- Salt to taste
Method of Cooking Mutton Pulao
- To begin, heat ghee or cooking oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or pressure cooker over medium heat. The sizzle of cumin seeds, green cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and bay leaf fills the air with their enticing aroma, setting the stage for the flavors to come.
- Next, add thinly sliced onions to the pot and patiently sauté them until they turn a beautiful golden brown. The slow caramelization process enhances the sweetness of the onions, adding depth and richness to the dish. Set aside half of the caramelized onions for garnishing later.
- Infuse the pot with the delightful combination of minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies. These aromatic ingredients release their essence, infusing the mutton with layers of flavor.
- Now it’s time to add the star of the dish – the mutton pieces. Brown them evenly, allowing the outer layer to develop a rich, caramelized crust. This step ensures that the meat remains tender and juicy while being cooked with the rice.
- Lower the heat and sprinkle turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt over the mutton. Stir well, coating the meat with the vibrant spices, which will infuse every bite with a delightful warmth and mild heat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk plain yogurt until smooth, and add it to the pot. The yogurt adds a creamy richness and helps tenderize the mutton even further. Allow the mutton to simmer gently, on low heat, for around 45 minutes to an hour. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and the meat to become incredibly tender.
- As the mutton cooks, drain the soaked basmati rice and add it to the pot. Gently mix the rice with the mutton, ensuring that each grain is coated with the flavorful spices. The rice absorbs the fragrant juices from the meat, enhancing its taste and aroma.
- Pour enough water into the pot to cover the rice by about an inch. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer. The steam gently cooks the rice, resulting in perfectly fluffy grains that are infused with the flavors of the mutton and spices.
- Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together and ensures that the rice achieves its desired texture.
- Finally, gently fluff the rice with a fork, revealing the aromatic masterpiece you’ve created. Garnish the Mutton Pulao with the reserved caramelized onions and freshly chopped coriander leaves, adding an extra touch of visual appeal and freshness.
Serve the Mutton Pulao hot, accompanied by raita (yogurt sauce), a crisp salad, or your favorite side dish. Each spoonful will transport you to a world of exquisite flavors, where the tender mutton and fragrant rice dance together in perfect harmony.
Enjoy the heavenly flavors of Mutton Pulao as it delights your palate and enjoy the heavenly flavors of Mutton Pulao as it delights your palate and creates a satisfying dining experience. The tender mutton infused with aromatic spices and the fragrant basmati rice complement each other perfectly, resulting in a dish that is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.
