"Shonar Bangla: Exploring the Flavors of Bengali Basanti Pulao"
Here's a recipe for Basanti Pulao, A delightful and fragrant rice dish from Bengali Cuisine Ingredients: 1 cup Basmati rice 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) or vegetable oil 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 4-5 green cardamom pods 4-5 cloves 1-inch cinnamon stick 1 bay leaf 1 large onion, thinly sliced 1 tablespoon ginger paste 1 tablespoon garlic paste 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, etc.), chopped 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands (soaked in 2 tablespoons warm milk) Salt to taste 2 cups water Cashews and raisins for garnish (optional) Instructions: Rinse the Basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain and set aside. Heat ghee or oil in a deep pan or pot over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf. Sauté for a minute until aromatic. Add the sliced onion to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown. Add ging...
