Peshawari Chana Mewa Pulao Recipe
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish with chickpeas, dried fruits, and whole spices, inspired by the rich culinary heritage of Peshawar.
Equipment
- Heavy-bottomed pot or pressure cooker
- Wooden spoon
- Fine-mesh strainer for rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups basmati rice rinsed and soaked for 15 minutes
- 4 cups vegetable stock or water
- 2 cups cooked chickpeas chana
- ½ cup raisins mewa
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
Whole Spices for Authentic Flavor
- 4-5 cloves
- 1- inch cinnamon stick
- 2 black cardamom pods
- 1 bay leaf
Ground Spices & Seasoning
- 1½ tbsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp cumin seeds
- ½ cup oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatic Base
- Heat ½ cup oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or pressure cooker over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Stir in garlic, cloves, cinnamon stick, black cardamom, and bay leaf. Let them sizzle for a minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Tomatoes
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften into a thick paste.
- Stir occasionally to avoid sticking and burning.
Step 3: Mix in the Chickpeas and Raisins
- Add the chickpeas and raisins to the pot.
- Sprinkle in garam masala, cumin seeds, and salt.
- Stir everything well so that the chickpeas absorb all the flavors.
Step 4: Add the Rice and Cook
- Drain the soaked basmati rice and add it to the pot.
- Pour in vegetable stock or water, ensuring the liquid covers the rice completely.
- Stir gently to mix everything.
Step 5: Cook to Perfection
- If using a pressure cooker, cook on medium heat for one whistle.
- If using a regular pot, cover with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
- Let the pulao sit for 5 minutes before fluffing it with a fork.
- Serve hot with yogurt raita, pickles, or a side salad.
Video
Notes
- Soaking the rice prevents it from becoming sticky.
- Adjust the spice levels according to your preference.
- Adding a squeeze of lemon at the end can enhance the flavors.