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A complete Polao recipe using 1 kilogram of basmati rice with perfect measurements for ghee, spices, and water. Learn how to make fluffy, aromatic, and restaurant-style Polao easily at home.
Introduction
Polao is one of the most delicious and fragrant rice dishes enjoyed all over Asia and the Middle East. It is made by cooking basmati rice in ghee with spices and sometimes garnished with fried onions, nuts, and raisins. To achieve perfect texture and aroma, it is important to maintain accurate measurements. Here is the ideal Polao recipe for 1 kilogram of rice.
Ingredients for 1 kg of Rice
Basmati Rice – 1 kilogram
Ghee or Clarified Butter – 150 grams
Onions – 5 large (thinly sliced)
Water – 1.7 liters
Cinnamon Sticks – 3 pieces
Cardamom Pods – 8
Cloves – 6
Bay Leaves – 3
Salt – 3 teaspoons (or to taste)
Cashew Nuts – 50 grams
Raisins – 40 grams
Fried Onions – 1 cup (for garnish)
Kewra Water or Rose Essence – few drops (optional)
Cooking Instructions
1. Wash the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in clean water for 20 minutes. Drain completely before cooking.
2. Heat ghee in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Add sliced onions and fry until golden brown. Remove half for later use as garnish.
4. Add cinnamon sticks, cardamoms, cloves, and bay leaves. Stir for a few seconds to release aroma.
5. Add the soaked and drained rice and stir gently for 2 to 3 minutes so every grain gets coated with ghee and spices.
6. Pour in 1.7 liters of hot water and add salt. Stir lightly to mix.
7. Cover the pot tightly and cook on low flame for 15 to 18 minutes or until rice is fully cooked and water is absorbed.
8. Turn off the heat and keep the pot covered for 10 minutes.
9. Fluff the rice gently with a fork and garnish with fried onions, cashew nuts, raisins, and a few drops of kewra water.
Expert Tips for Perfect Polao
1. Always use aged basmati rice for the best aroma and non-sticky texture.
2. Maintain the water-to-rice ratio of 1.7 liters water for 1 kilogram rice.
3. Avoid stirring the rice too much during cooking to prevent breakage.
4. Add a pinch of sugar while frying onions to get a beautiful golden color.
5. Rest the rice after cooking to let the grains become fluffy and separate.
Serving Suggestions
Polao goes perfectly with chicken curry, beef curry, vegetable korma, or roasted fish.
It can also be served with salad, yogurt, or pickles for a balanced meal.
Nutritional Information per Serving (Approximate)
Calories – 450 kcal
Carbohydrates – 75 grams
Protein – 7 grams
Fat – 12 grams
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How much water is needed for 1 kilogram of rice when cooking Polao?
Use about 1.7 liters of water for perfectly cooked and fluffy rice.
Q2. Can I use oil instead of ghee?
Yes, you can, but ghee gives a richer taste and aroma.
Q3. Why does Polao sometimes turn sticky?
It happens if too much water is used or the rice is over-soaked. Always measure accurately.
Q4. Can I add vegetables or meat to this recipe?
Yes, you can add cooked chicken or mixed vegetables while frying the rice for a variation.
Q5. How many people can be served with 1 kilogram of rice?
This recipe serves around 8 to 10 people, depending on portion size.
Conclusion
Making Polao with 1 kilogram of rice is simple when you follow the right proportions.
With the perfect balance of ghee, spices, and rice, you’ll get fluffy, aromatic, and delicious Polao every time.
Serve it at family dinners, parties, or festive occasions and impress everyone with your cooking.
