Afghan Polao is a traditional dish that is similar to a pilaf or biryani, and usually features lamb or beef. Here is a recipe for Afghan Polao that you can try:
Afghan Polao
Ingredients:
- 2 cups (400 g) basmati rice
- 2 pounds (900 g) lamb or beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) ground cardamom
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) turmeric
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) salt
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) black pepper
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) raisins
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) slivered almonds
- 3 cups (720 ml) water or lamb/beef broth
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice in cold water and soak for 30 minutes.
- In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the meat to the pot and brown on all sides.
- Add the garlic, cumin, cardamom, coriander, turmeric, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Add the chopped carrot to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
- Drain the rice and add it to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Add the raisins, almonds, and water or broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
- Simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot.
Estimated Servings: 6-8 servings.
Estimated Prep Time: 30 minutes.
Estimated Cooking Time: 1 hour.
Estimated Calories per Serving: 500 calories.