How To Make Chicken Pilau
Simpler to make than biryiani, and a variation of pilau rice, Chicken Pilau is a tasty dish with origins in Southern India. We teamed up with Shahena Ali from the Maharaja restaurant in Benfleet, to show you how to make it.
Step 1: Wash Rice
Wash the rice until the water runs clear and then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Heat Ghee and Add Spices
Heat half of the ghee in a large saucepan and fry the onion until it has turned golden. Now add the cinnamon, cloves, cardamom pods.
Step 3: Mix Together
Now add the rice and ginger and garlic paste to the onion and ghee mixture and stir until the rice grains are well coated with ghee.
Step 4: Add Water
Now add the water.
Step 5: Bring To Boil
Cover and bring to the boil, then reduce the heat to a very low flame and cook whilst covered for 20 minutes
Step 6: Cook Paste
Heat the remaining ghee in a separate frying pan, add the sultanas, almonds, salt and also add the yoghurt, stirring often. Let the paste cook until it starts to split and release oil/ the melted ghee separates slightly from the yogurt.
Step 7: Add Chicken
Now add the chicken pieces, the garam masala and chilli powder to the frying pan and cook over a medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through
Step 8: Stir and Serve
Stir the chicken mixture into the rice and leave to stand for 5 minutes before serving