21 August, 2025

The warm aroma of ghee heating in a pan, the tender sizzle of spices, and the mellow sounds of basmati rice absorbing the flavours are a traditional experience born and lived out of our mothers' kitchens. That is when Navratna Pulao takes its first breath, a dish so deeply rooted in tradition yet so adaptable to the modern kitchen. Navratna Pulao is one of the highly coveted Indian rice dishes, which unites the notions of warmth, colour, and celebration within every bite of the dish. Known as one of the most treasured Indian rice recipes, Navratna Pulao brings together warmth, colour, and celebration in every bite.

The vegetable pulao has deep roots in the kitchens of royalty and feast thalis and was always a signifier of opulence and sophistication. However, besides its royal history, it is the feelings that this dish evokes: Sunday lunches with the family, celebratory dinners with people shining with smiles, and the smell of home-cooked love. This pulao recipe is the best part about it, as it combines nostalgia and freshness in a new way – the old, familiar flavours in a modern, everyday convenience.

Whether it’s being served during Diwali or laid out for a quiet dinner with loved ones, Navratna Pulao is more than food. It’s warmth on a plate. Especially when made with fragrant Kohinoor Basmati Rice, its fluffy, long grains beautifully carry the essence of every ingredient.

What Makes Navratna Pulao Unique?

Navratna is a Sanskrit word that means “nine gems” and perfectly encapsulates the essence of this dish: a medley of nine vibrant ingredients that come together in harmony. These gems, both sweet and savoury, represent the true diversity of Indian cooking. Think crunchy cashews, golden raisins, fresh vegetables, and the gentle heat of whole spices.

What sets this veg pulao apart is its rich layering of textures and flavours; a gentle sweetness is balanced with warm spice, and softness is balanced with crunch. It’s traditionally cooked in ghee, which adds an irresistible aroma, while saffron lends a hint of luxury that makes every spoonful feel special.

Inspired by a recipe demonstrated in a popular cooking video, Navratna Pulao shines with golden fried onions, cooked vegetables, and colourful capsicum, all gently stirred into perfectly cooked rice. Topped with fresh herbs, it’s as beautiful to look at as it is to eat.

This is what makes it a favourite not just at weddings or festivals, but in homes where cooking is an act of love.

Ingredients Required of Navratna Pulao:

For Fried Onions

• ½ cup ghee
• 1 cup thinly sliced onions

For Nuts & Dry Fruits

• 8–10 almonds
• 3 dates, sliced
• 5 walnuts
• A handful of cashew nuts
• A handful of raisins
• 3 dates, sliced

For the Pulao

• 1 bay leaf
• 1½ tsp cumin seeds
• 4–5 cloves
• 5–7 black peppercorns
• 7–8 green cardamoms
• 1 black cardamom
• 1 cinnamon stick (~2″)
• 2 tsp chopped ginger
• 2 tsp chopped garlic
• 1 green chilli, slit
• ½ cup carrots, diced
• ½ cup green beans, cubed
• ½ cup potatoes, diced
• ½ cup cauliflower florets
• Salt to taste
• 1½ cups water
• 1 cup Kohinoor Traditional Basmati Rice, soaked for 30 mins
• ½ cup green peas
• ½ cup paneer cubes (optional, lightly sautéed)
• A dash of saffron milk

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Navratna Pulao:

1. Fry the onions.

Heat ghee in a deep pan and add the sliced onions. Cook on medium flame until they turn golden brown and crisp. Remove and drain on kitchen paper.

2. Roast Nuts and Dry Fruits

In the same ghee, add almonds, cashews, walnuts, dates, and raisins. Stir gently on low heat until they’re lightly roasted and fragrant. Remove and keep aside.

3. Bloom the Whole Spices

Add chopped ginger, garlic, and green chilli. Sauté for a minute before stirring in diced carrots, beans, potatoes, and cauliflower. Add salt and cook for a few minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

4. Add Aromatics and Vegetables

Add chopped ginger, garlic, and green chilli. Sauté for a minute before stirring in diced carrots, beans, potatoes, and cauliflower. Add salt and cook for a few minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

5. Add Water and Simmer

Pour in water and allow it to come to a light boil. Cover and cook on low until vegetables are nearly done.

6. Add Rice and Peas

Stir in the soaked Kohinoor Basmati rice and green peas. Add more salt if needed. Let it cook uncovered until water is absorbed halfway.

7. Finish with Saffron Milk and Dum Cooking

Drizzle saffron milk across the top. Cover the pan and cook on low heat (dum) for 10–12 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and fluffy.

8. Garnish and Serve

Once done, gently fluff the rice. Top with fried onions, roasted nuts, and optionally sautéed paneer cubes. A few pomegranate seeds or fresh coriander can be added for colour.

Serving Suggestions

This fragrant navratna pulao pairs beautifully with creamy curries, such as shahi paneer, mild kormas, or dal makhani. It also goes well with a side of cucumber raita or a bowl of curd. A touch of pickle or a spoonful of mango chutney can add a spicy-sweet contrast.

For festive spreads, this recipe is made to be served on a silver platter or in a traditional handi. The colours and aroma alone will draw everyone to the table. For everyday meals, it still holds its charm: simple, satisfying, and full of love.

Navratna Pulao is more than just a vegetable pulao; it’s a heartfelt blend of flavour, colour, and memory. This is the kind of dish that turns ordinary moments into cherished ones, the kind that reminds everyone what home feels like.

Whether cooked for a celebration or to treat yourself on a quiet evening, this dish brings warmth and joy to any table. And when made with the finest Kohinoor Traditional Basmati Rice, its delicate aroma and texture truly elevate it into something special. So go ahead; gather your spices, warm the ghee, and let this recipe fill your kitchen with love and your table with smiles.

FAQs

Is Navratna Pulao sweet or savoury?

It’s a perfect blend of both. The dish balances savoury spices with sweet touches, such as raisins and pineapple.

What are the best side dishes to serve with Navratna Pulao?

Mild curries, such as shahi paneer, navratan korma, or a creamy dal, pair wonderfully with this pulao. Add some raita and salad to complete the meal.

Which rice is best for Navratna Pulao?

Kohinoor Basmati Rice, or any traditional basmati rice, is ideal due to its distinctive fragrance and long, fluffy grains.