Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe (2024)

The Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe is a traditional dish from Afghanistan. It is a flavorful rice dish that is often served on special occasions and gatherings. This dish is made using long-grain Basmati rice, tender pieces of meat (such as lamb, chicken, or beef), and a blend of aromatic spices. The key ingredients that give this recipe its distinct taste are the caramelized onions, raisins, and carrots, which add a sweet and savory flavor to the pulao.

In addition to its delicious taste, the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe offers several health benefits. The Basmati rice used in the recipe is a good source of carbohydrates and provides energy to the body. The dish also contains proteins from the meat, which are essential for muscle building and repair. Moreover, the spices used in the pulao, such as cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, are known to have various health-promoting properties. For example, they may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

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Furthermore, the presence of carrots and raisins in the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe adds a nutritional boost. Carrots are rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin A, which is beneficial for eye health and immune function. Raisins are a good source of natural sugars, fiber, and essential minerals like potassium and iron.

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This traditional Afghani dish is not only satisfying to the taste buds but also provides a balanced mix of nutrients. It combines the goodness of proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, making it a wholesome and nourishing meal. Whether served at family gatherings or enjoyed on special occasions, the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe holds cultural significance and remains a cherished dish in Afghan cuisine.

How To Make Our Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe

Ingredients (8 Servings)

2 tbsp ghee
1 lb 2 oz boneless lamb, cut into 2 cm cubes
2 cups basmati rice,
2 onions, thinly sliced
4 garlic, minced
1 cinnamonstick
10 cardamom pods
1 tsp cround cardamom
¼ tsp ground cinnamon
2 tsp. cumin seeds
6 whole cloves
3 cups stock or water
salt and pepper
3 carrots, peeled and cut into matchsticks or shredded
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup raisins, soaked in water and drained
1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
2 tsp. garam masala

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee over medium heat.

a. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook until golden brown and caramelized.
b. Remove half of the onions from the pot and set them aside for later use.

2. In the same pot with the remaining onions, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

a. Add the boneless lamb cubes and cook until they are browned on all sides.
b. Season the lamb with salt, pepper, ground cinnamon, and ground cardamom.

3. Add the cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and whole cloves to the pot.

a. Stir well to incorporate the spices with the lamb and onions.

4. Pour in 3 cups of stock or water and bring the mixture to a boil.

a. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the lamb simmer until tender.
b. This may take about 1 to 1.5 hours.

5. While the lamb is simmering, wash the basmati rice in cold water until the water runs clear.

a. Drain the rice and set it aside.

6. In a separate pan, melt some ghee and add the shredded carrots.

a. Sauté the carrots until they become soft and tender.
b. Add sugar and continue cooking until the carrots caramelize and turn slightly golden.
c. Add the soaked and drained raisins to the carrots and set aside.

7. Once the lamb is tender, remove the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and whole cloves from the pot.

a. Layer the partially cooked rice over the lamb and spread the reserved caramelized onions on top.
b. Sprinkle the garam masala and toasted sliced almonds over the onions.

8. Pour about 1 cup of water evenly over the rice and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.

a. Allow the pulao to cook on low heat until the rice is fully cooked and fluffy.
b. This should take approximately 20-25 minutes.

9. Once the rice is cooked, gently fluff it with a fork.

a. Serve the Afghani Kabuli Pulao hot, garnished with the caramelized carrot and raisin mixture on top.

Estimated Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours

Pots, Pan and Cooking Equipment Needed forthe Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe

Large pot
Separate pan
Lid for the pot
Fork for fluffing rice

Best Way to Store Leftovers From Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe

a. Use an airtight container to store leftover pulao.
b. Let the pulao cool down before storing it.
c. Refrigerate the leftovers within two hours of cooking.
d. Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
e. Consume the leftover pulao within 3-4 days.
f. Reheat the pulao thoroughly before serving again.

Tips and Tricks For Easier Creation

Rinse the basmati rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
Soak the raisins in water to plump them up before adding to the pulao.
Toast the sliced almonds separately until they turn golden for better flavor.
Use a heavy-bottomed pot to avoid burning the pulao at the bottom.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar to the caramelized carrots.
Keep an eye on the lamb while simmering to prevent overcooking.
For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with chickpeas or lentils.

Side Dishes and Desserts Forthe Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe

a. Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Yogurt Dressing
b. Spinach and Chickpea Curry
c. Tandoori Chicken
d. Naan Bread
e. Roasted Vegetables with Indian Spices
f. Mint Chutney
g. Raita (Cucumber and Yogurt Dip)

How To Serve the Cuban Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe

a. Fluff the cooked rice gently with a fork before serving.
b. Arrange the caramelized carrot and raisin mixture on top for garnish.
c. Serve the pulao on a large platter for family-style dining.
d. Accompany the pulao with a bowl of refreshing cucumber and yogurt salad.
e. Offer side dishes like spinach and chickpea curry or tandoori chicken.
f. Serve naan bread on the side for a complete meal experience.
g. Enjoy the flavorful and aromatic Afghani Kabuli Pulao with friends and family!

Dietary Substitution For the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe

1. Vegan Options for the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe:

a. Substitute ghee with vegetable oil or vegan butter.
b. Replace boneless lamb with firm tofu or tempeh cubes.
c. Use vegetable stock or water instead of meat stock.
d. Swap honey or maple syrup for the sugar.
e. Omit the meat-based garam masala and use a plant-based version.

2. Gluten-Free Options for the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe:

a. Ensure the spices used are certified gluten-free.
b. Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
c. Check that the stock used is gluten-free or use homemade gluten-free stock.
d. Substitute raisins with other dried fruits, ensuring they are gluten-free.
e. Ensure the sliced almonds are not processed in facilities with gluten cross-contamination.

3. Vegetarian Options for the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe:

a. Omit the boneless lamb and use extra vegetables like cauliflower or bell peppers.
b. Replace ghee with vegetable oil or butter for a vegetarian version.
c. Use vegetable stock or water instead of meat stock.
d. Include paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cubes as a protein substitute.
e. Add more nuts like cashews or walnuts for a protein boost.

4. Mediterranean Diet Options for the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe:

a. Replace ghee with olive oil for a Mediterranean twist.
b. Use vegetable stock or water instead of meat stock.
c. Add artichoke hearts and olives for extra Mediterranean flavors.
d. Include sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of tanginess.
e. Top with crumbled feta cheese for added richness.

5. Keto Diet Options for the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe:

a. Substitute ghee with coconut oil or avocado oil.
b. Replace basmati rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
c. Omit the sugar or use a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol.
d. Use vegetable stock or water instead of meat stock.
e. Add more nuts like macadamia nuts for added healthy fats.

6. Heart Healthy Diet Options for the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe:

a. Use olive oil instead of ghee for a heart-healthy fat.
b. Replace boneless lamb with skinless chicken or turkey.
c. Use vegetable stock or water instead of meat stock.
d. Reduce the amount of added sugar or use a natural sweetener.
e. Add more colorful vegetables like spinach or red bell peppers.

7. Paleo Options for the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe:

a. Use ghee or coconut oil for a Paleo-friendly fat source.
b. Replace basmati rice with cauliflower rice for a grain-free option.
c. Omit the sugar or use raw honey as a natural sweetener.
d. Use vegetable stock or water instead of meat stock.
e. Add more vegetables like zucchini or broccoli for extra nutrition.

8. Low Carb Options for the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe:

a. Substitute ghee with olive oil or coconut oil.
b. Replace basmati rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
c. Omit the sugar or use a low-carb sweetener like stevia.
d. Use vegetable stock or water instead of meat stock.
e. Add more nuts and seeds for added texture and healthy fats.

9. Whole30 Options for the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe:

a. Use ghee or clarified butter for a Whole30-approved fat.
b. Replace basmati rice with cauliflower rice for a compliant option.
c. Omit the sugar or use a Whole30-approved sweetener like dates.
d. Use homemade vegetable stock or water instead of meat stock.
e. Add compliant spices and herbs for additional flavor.

10. Weight Watchers Options for the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe:

a. Substitute ghee with a low-fat cooking spray or small amount of olive oil.
b. Use lean chicken breast instead of lamb for lower points.
c. Reduce the amount of added sugar or use a sugar substitute.
d. Use low-sodium vegetable stock or water instead of meat stock.
e. Add more vegetables to increase volume and reduce points.

11. Low Fat Options for the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe:

a. Use a low-fat cooking spray instead of ghee.
b. Replace boneless lamb with skinless chicken breast.
c. Omit or reduce the amount of added sugar.
d. Use low-sodium vegetable stock or water instead of meat stock.
e. Add more vegetables for extra nutrition and lower fat content.

12. Vegetable Variations for the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe:

a. Create a vegetable-only pulao by omitting the meat and using vegetable stock.
b. Use a variety of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, peas, and corn.
c. Replace raisins with dried cranberries or apricots for a different twist.
d. Include roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash for added sweetness.
e. Add sautéed mushrooms for a rich and earthy flavor.

Please note that the given substitutions are general suggestions, and individual dietary needs and preferences may vary. It’s always recommended to check labels, choose quality ingredients, and consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice.

FAQ About the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe

What is the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe?
Answer: The Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe is a traditional dish from Afghanistan, made with aromatic Basmati rice, tender pieces of meat, and a blend of flavorful spices. It is often served on special occasions and gatherings.

How do I store leftovers of the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe?
Answer: To store leftovers of the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. Label the container with the date and consume the leftovers within 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving again.

Can I make the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe vegan?
Answer: Yes, you can make a vegan version of the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe. Substitute ghee with vegetable oil or vegan butter, and replace the boneless lamb with firm tofu or tempeh cubes. Use vegetable stock and omit the meat-based garam masala.

Is the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe gluten-free?
Answer: The Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe can be made gluten-free by ensuring that all the ingredients, including spices and stock, are certified gluten-free. Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce, and check the labels for gluten-free raisins and almonds.

What are some Mediterranean diet options for the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe?
Answer: To make the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe fit the Mediterranean diet, use olive oil instead of ghee, and replace meat with olives and artichoke hearts. Opt for vegetable stock, and top the dish with crumbled feta cheese for added Mediterranean flavors.

Final Thoughts

The Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe is a delightful and flavorful rice dish with tender pieces of meat, fragrant spices, and caramelized onions, raisins, and carrots. The combination of these ingredients creates a sweet and savory taste that tantalizes the taste buds. This dish can be easily adapted to suit different dietary preferences, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and keto diets. For a heart-healthy option, lean cuts of meat and minimal added sugar can be used.

The versatility of the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe allows for creative variations, making it suitable for various occasions. It can be served as a comforting family meal or as an impressive dish for special gatherings. The dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as cucumber and tomato salad, spinach and chickpea curry, or roasted vegetables.

From a nutritional perspective, the Basmati rice in the pulao provides a good source of carbohydrates, while the meat contributes essential proteins. The aromatic spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves may offer potential health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties.

In conclusion, the Afghani Kabuli Pulao Recipe is a versatile and delicious dish that caters to different tastes and dietary needs. Its harmonious blend of flavors, coupled with potential health benefits, makes it a delightful addition to any dining experience. Whether you’re exploring diverse cuisines or seeking a nutritious meal, this Afghan delicacy is sure to impress and satisfy.