Muradabadi Yakhni Pulao

Muradabadi Yakhni Pulao

Muradabadi Yakhni Pulao is a traditional rice dish hailing from the city of Moradabad in Uttar Pradesh, India. This aromatic pulao is known for its rich flavors and fragrant aroma, making it a favorite among rice lovers. The key to the exquisite taste of Muradabadi Yakhni Pulao lies in the yakhni, a flavorful broth made by simmering meat with aromatic spices. The rice is then cooked in this flavorful broth along with tender pieces of meat, resulting in a dish that is both hearty and delicious. Muradabadi Yakhni Pulao is often served as a main course during special occasions and celebrations, delighting diners with its irresistible taste and comforting warmth.

The beauty of Muradabadi Yakhni Pulao lies in its simplicity and depth of flavor. Made with a handful of ingredients, this dish showcases the essence of Indian cuisine at its best. The subtle blend of spices and the tender texture of the meat-infused rice create a culinary experience that is both satisfying and memorable. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a side of yogurt or raita, Muradabadi Yakhni Pulao is sure to transport you to the bustling streets of Uttar Pradesh, where every bite is a celebration of flavor and tradition.

Ingredients Required for Making Muradabadi Yakhni Pulao

  • Basmati Rice (बासमती चावल) – 2 cups
  • Mutton (मटन) – 500 grams, cut into pieces
  • Onion (प्याज) – 2 large, thinly sliced
  • Ginger-garlic paste (अदरक-लहसुन पेस्ट) – 2 tablespoons
  • Yogurt (दही) – 1/2 cup
  • Ghee (घी) – 4 tablespoons
  • Green cardamom (इलायची) – 4-5 pods
  • Cloves (लौंग) – 4-5
  • Cinnamon stick (दालचीनी) – 1-inch piece
  • Bay leaves (तेज पत्ता) – 2
  • Black peppercorns (काली मिर्च) – 1 teaspoon
  • Cumin seeds (जीरा) – 1 teaspoon
  • Salt (नमक) – to taste
  • Water – as needed
  • Fresh coriander leaves (ताजा धनिया पत्ती) – for garnish

Step-wise Process of Making Muradabadi Yakhni Pulao

  1. Prepare Yakhni (Broth):
    • In a large pot, add the mutton pieces, sliced onions, ginger-garlic paste, yogurt, green cardamom, cloves, cinnamon stick, bay leaves, black peppercorns, cumin seeds, and salt.
    • Add enough water to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil.
    • Reduce the heat to low and let the yakhni simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours until the mutton is tender and the flavors are infused into the broth.
    • Once done, strain the yakhni and reserve both the broth and the cooked mutton pieces separately.
  2. Cook the Rice:
    • Wash the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for about 30 minutes.
    • In a separate pot, heat ghee over medium heat. Add the soaked rice and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
    • Pour in the strained yakhni (broth) and adjust the salt if needed. Bring it to a boil.
    • Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice cook for about 15-20 minutes until it is fully cooked and fluffy.
  3. Combine Rice and Mutton:
    • Once the rice is cooked, gently mix in the cooked mutton pieces with the rice.
    • Cover the pot and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  4. Garnish and Serve:
    • Garnish the Moradabadi Yakhni Pulao with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
    • Serve hot with raita, salad, or any desired side dish.

Number of Servings

This recipe makes approximately 4-5 servings.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time Required

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes (including soaking time)
  • Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (for yakhni), 20 minutes (for rice)
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Important Points to Keep in Mind While Making the Dish

  • Meat Selection: Use bone-in mutton pieces for making yakhni as they add flavor to the broth.
  • Yakhni Simmering: Ensure that the yakhni simmers on low heat to allow the flavors to develop fully.
  • Rice Measurement: Use the right proportion of water to rice for perfectly cooked grains.

How to Serve Muradabadi Yakhni Pulao

Muradabadi Yakhni Pulao is best served hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves. It pairs well with raita, salad, or any desired side dish.

Final Thoughts…

Muradabadi Yakhni Pulao is a dish that captures the essence of Uttar Pradesh’s culinary heritage with its rich flavors and aromatic spices. Whether enjoyed on festive occasions or as a comforting meal, this pulao is sure to impress with its irresistible taste and heartwarming aroma. So, treat yourself to the indulgent flavors of Muradabadi Yakhni Pulao and embark on a culinary journey to the vibrant streets of Moradabad, where every bite is a celebration of tradition and taste.

CLICK HERE for some more delicious Rice Recipes.

CLICK HERE for some more delicious Meat and Mutton Recipes.



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