How do you make pilau rice like you get at the Indian take away?

Answer 1

I am a huge fan of my rice cooker, so would cook pilau rice using that.

If you don't have one, there are some great recipes below, including one from Auntie Delia.

Answer 2

There are many types of pulaos, but I think you are referring to jeera pulao with peas. If it's yellow, then it's saffron pulao.

Here's the basic recipe:

Use Basmati rice (long grain Indian rice). In a large saute pan on medium high heat, add 1 tbsp butter. When it has mostly melted, add 1 large tsp cumin seeds. Reduce the heat to med low & stir until fragrant. Add your rice, stir and add salt to taste.
Stir for an additional 2-3 minutes. At this point you could add
water or transfer to a rice cooker and add water. Follow the rice cooker directions.

Stovetop: bring to a gentle boil, cover and reduce heat to gentle simmer. Should take 10-15 minutes.

Always rinse your rice before use & drain well. The ratio for pulao
is 1 cup of rice = 1 and 3/4 cup water. I microwave some
frozen peas & throw them in before serving. I dont like to cook them with the rice because their lovely green color fades. You can also garnish with toasted almonds or cashews.

*************************************************************
for saffron pulao: it's butter, rice, salt, water, pinch of saffron.
no peas or other spices usually.

***************************************************************

this is the most basic of recipes. once you feel more comfortable, you can use different spices, vegetables, dried fruits, nuts, meats....

Answer 3

Do check out Indira's website:

http://www.nandyala.org/mahanandi/archives/2006/08/03/cherry-tomato-basmati-pulao/