Mutton pulao is a mildly spiced, aromatic rice dish where soft mutton is cooked with basmati rice and whole spices. It is lighter than biryani but rich in flavor, making it perfect for family meals and special occasions.
Ingredients
- Basmati rice – 2 cups
- Mutton (bone-in) – 500 g
- Onion – 2 large (thinly sliced)
- Green chillies – 2 to 3 (slit)
- Ginger-garlic paste – 2 tbsp
- Mint leaves – ½ cup
- Coriander leaves – ½ cup
- Curd – ½ cup
- Ghee – 3 tbsp
- Oil – 1 tbsp
- Bay leaf – 1
- Cinnamon – 1 inch
- Cloves – 4
- Cardamom – 3
- Star anise – 1 (optional)
- Shahi jeera – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – 1 tsp (crushed)
- Coriander powder – 1½ tsp
- Garam masala – 1 tsp
- Salt – as needed
- Water – 3½ to 4 cups
Preparation Method
- Wash basmati rice thoroughly and soak it for 30 minutes. Keep aside.
- Heat oil and ghee in a pressure cooker or heavy-bottom pan.
- Add bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, star anise, and shahi jeera. Saute until aromatic.
- Add sliced onions and fry until golden brown.
- Add green chillies and ginger-garlic paste. Saute until raw smell disappears.
- Add mutton, turmeric, coriander powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
- Cook on medium flame for 5–7 minutes until the mutton releases moisture.
- Add curd, mint leaves, and coriander leaves. Mix and cook for 2 minutes.
- Close the cooker and cook for 3–4 whistles until the mutton becomes soft.
- Open the lid once pressure releases naturally.
- Drain the soaked rice and add it to the cooked mutton.
- Add garam masala and mix gently without breaking the rice.
- Add measured water, check salt, and bring to a boil.
- Cover and cook on low flame until the rice is fully cooked and fluffy.
- Switch off the flame and rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips
- Bone-in mutton gives the best flavor.
- Use aged basmati rice for non-sticky pulao.
- Do not over-stir after adding rice to keep grains separate.
- Ghee enhances aroma and taste.
Variations
- Add ½ cup coconut milk for a rich Kerala-style mutton pulao.
- Garnish with fried onions for a festive version.
Health Benefits
- Mutton is rich in protein, iron, and vitamin B12.
- Whole spices help digestion and boost metabolism.
- A balanced and satisfying meal when paired with raita.