Qabili pilau, also known as Kabuli pulao or Kabuli palaw, is a classic Afghan dish that combines aromatic rice, tender meat, and flavorful vegetables. It is a beloved centerpiece of special occasions and celebrations, with its vibrant colors and rich flavors capturing the essence of Afghan cuisine. The dish's name, "qabili," derives from the Pashtun word "qabil," meaning "worthy" or "suitable," highlighting its significance as a special and revered dish. While numerous variations exist, the core elements of qabili pilau remain consistent, forming a culinary tapestry that reflects the diverse regions and culinary traditions of Afghanistan. This article will guide you through the intricacies of preparing this delectable dish, providing step-by-step instructions and insights into the unique ingredients and techniques that elevate qabili pilau to its well-deserved status as a culinary masterpiece.
Here are our top 3 tried and tested recipes!
QABILI PILAU
This recipe is from http://international-grub.blogspot.com/2009/09/afganistan-qabili-pilau.html Wikipedia says that Qabili Pilau is the national dish of Afganistan
Provided by loranne_bronze22
Categories One Dish Meal
Time 2h5m
Yield 1 Recipe, 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- Brown 1 medium diced onion in oil. Fry until the onion is fairly dark. Add 1 lb lamb cut into 1"-2" cubes and brown lightly.
- Add 2 cups of water, 1 teaspoons Salt and 1 to 1 ½ tsp each (cinnamon, ground cumin and ground cardamom) Cover and simmer until meat is tender, about an hour.
- Remove meat from the juice and set juice aside. Cut 3 carrots into match stick size pieces. Sauté carrots and 1 tsp sugar in about 1/4 cup of oil. Cook until they are lightly browned. Remove from oil Add 1 cup of raisins (I prefer golden sultanas) to the oil and cook until they swell up.
- Boil the meat juice and add 2 cups basmati (very long grained) rice, 1 ½ tsp salt and enough boiling water to come 2 inches over the rice. Cook until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender, but not mushy.
- Mix the meat, carrots, raisins and rice together. Place in a large oven-proof casserole, cover and bake at 300 degrees for about a half hour--or up to an hour. To serve--place on platter, making sure the carrots and raisins show on top.
QABILI PILAU
Categories Beef Chicken Lamb High Fiber Casserole/Gratin Healthy
Yield 4 servings
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Brown 1 medium diced onion in oil. Fry until the onion is fairly dark. Add the meat and brown lightly. Add 2 cups of water, 1 tsp. Salt and 1 to 1 ½ tsp each (cinnamon, ground cumin and ground cardamom) Cover and simmer until meat is tender, about an hour. Remove meat from the juice and set juice aside. Bring the meat juice to a boil and add 2 cups rice, 1 ½ tsp salt and enough boiling water to come 2 inches over the rice. Cook until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender--but NOT mushy. While the rice is cooking, cut 3 carrots into match stick size pieces. Saute carrots and 1 tsp sugar in about 1/4 cup of oil. Cook until they are lightly browned. Remove from oil Add 1 cup of raisins (dried cranberries work, too) to the oil and cook until they swell up. Mix the meat, carrots, raisins and rice together. Place in a large oven-proof casserole, cover and bake at 300 degrees for about a half hour--or up to an hour. To serve--place on platter, making sure the carrots and raisins show on top.
QABILI PILAU WITH CHICKEN
Afghan recipe for chicken with rice, carrots and raisins. For the Dim Sum fans out there, this is a sort of Afghanistan Sticky Rice - it's exactly the same, only way different. ;)
Provided by Rhonda Scheurer
Categories Curries
Time 2h10m
Yield 6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- In large skillet, brown onion in 2 tbsp oil.
- Add chicken and brown lightly.
- Add 2 cups water, salt, cinnamon, cumin and cardamom.
- Cover and simmer until meat is tender, about one hour.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
- Set juice aside.
- Saute carrots and brown sugar in 4 tbsp oil until lightly browned.
- Remove and set aside.
- Add raisins to oil and cook until they swell up.
- Remove and set aside.
- Return the juice to the skillet.
- Add rice and 4 cups water and bring to a boil.
- Simmer until the water is absorbed.
- Pre-heat oven to 300.
- Mix the meat, carrots, raisins and rice.
- Place in a large casserole, cover and bake for 30 minutes.
Tips:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will greatly impact the flavor of your Qabili Pilau. Use fresh, flavorful rice, tender meat, and aromatic spices.
- Pay attention to the cooking process: Qabili Pilau is a delicate dish that requires careful attention to detail. Be sure to follow the recipe instructions carefully and adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed.
- Don't overcrowd the pot: When cooking the rice, be sure not to overcrowd the pot. This will prevent the rice from cooking evenly and will result in a mushy texture.
- Let the rice rest before serving: After the rice is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the rice to absorb the flavors of the spices and will also make it easier to serve.
- Serve with your favorite toppings: Qabili Pilau is traditionally served with a variety of toppings, such as yogurt, raisins, and nuts. Feel free to experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combination.
Conclusion:
Qabili Pilau is a delicious and flavorful Afghan dish that is perfect for a special occasion. With its tender meat, fluffy rice, and aromatic spices, Qabili Pilau is sure to impress your guests. So next time you're looking for a new and exciting dish to try, give Qabili Pilau a try. You won't be disappointed!
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