Yakhni Pulao Recipe (Authentic Pakistani Style)
Yakhni Pulao Recipe (Authentic Pakistani Style)
Yakhni Pulao is a traditional Pakistani rice dish prepared by cooking fragrant basmati rice in a rich meat stock known as yakhni. This recipe delivers a mild yet aromatic flavor, making it a perfect choice for family meals, Dawat, and special occasions. Unlike biryani, yakhni pulao focuses on natural spices and balanced taste.
⏱ Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Cuisine: Pakistani
Category: Main Course
🛒 Ingredients
For Yakhni (Stock)
750 g chicken or mutton (bone-in)
8 cups water
1 large onion (halved)
1 tbsp ginger paste
1 tbsp garlic paste
2 bay leaves
5–6 black peppercorns
4 green cardamom pods
1 cinnamon stick
Salt to taste
For Pulao
3 cups basmati rice (soaked 30 minutes)
½ cup ghee or cooking oil
2 medium onions (thinly sliced)
1 tsp cumin seeds
4 green cardamom pods
1 black cardamom
1 cinnamon stick
4 cloves
2–3 green chilies (slit)
1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
5½ cups prepared yakhni (strained)
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander & mint (for garnish)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Yakhni
In a deep pot, add meat, water, onion, ginger, garlic, spices, and salt.
Bring to a boil, then cook on low heat until meat is tender.
Strain the stock and keep the meat aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Base
Heat ghee or oil in a heavy pot.
Fry sliced onions until golden brown. Remove half for garnishing.
Step 3: Build Aroma
Add cumin seeds, whole spices, green chilies, and ginger-garlic paste.
Sauté until fragrant. Add cooked meat and mix gently.
Step 4: Add Rice & Yakhni
Add soaked rice and stir carefully.
Pour in measured yakhni, adjust salt, and bring to a rolling boil.
Step 5: Dum Cooking
When water reduces and rice appears on top, cover tightly.
Cook on low flame for 15–20 minutes.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with:
Lemon wedges
💡 Expert Tips for Perfect Yakhni Pulao
Always use aged basmati rice
Measure yakhni accurately for fluffy grains
Avoid over-mixing rice
Ghee enhances aroma significantly
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is Yakhni Pulao healthier than Biryani?
Yes, yakhni pulao uses fewer spices and less oil, making it lighter and easier to digest.
Can I freeze yakhni?
Yes, yakhni can be frozen for up to 30 days.
Which meat is best for yakhni pulao?
Mutton gives the richest flavor, while chicken is a lighter option.
📌 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days
Reheat on low heat with a splash of water
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