Prawn Pulao

I took out my recipe book recently and realised how many dishes I haven't made in a long time. I guess I am too busy trying out new dishes to go back to my old ones. I've decided I'll make the dishes from my recipe book more often.

This is one such dish that I used to quiet regularly. This used to see our table atleast once in 2 weeks if not more often.

I made this on Sunday after a really, really long time. When we sat down and started eating, I immediately realised how much I loved it. I definitely will be making it more often now.

This is a one dish meal that can be very satisfying and filling. Its quick and easy to make even after you come back from a tiring day at work. I don't prepare Raita every time I make this dish. It tastes really good even on its own.

Ingredients:
1.5 cups Basmati Rice – soaked in water for atleast 20 mins
250 gms raw Prawns (I used frozen)
1 Onion – sliced thinly
3 Green Chillies – slit length wise
2 tsp Ginger Garlic Paste
3 tbsp Chopped Tomatoes
1 inch Cinnamon Stick
4 Cloves
4 Green Cardamom
1 Dried Bay Leaf
15 Curry Leaves
1 tsp Cumin Seeds
1 tsp Red Chilli Powder
1/4 tsp Turmeric Powder
2 tbsp Oil
2 cups Water
Salt to Taste
Chopped Coriander for garnishing

Method

1. Heat Oil in a pan. When hot, add the Bay Leaf, Cardamom, Cloves and Cinnamon Stick and fry for 2 mins.
2. Add the Cumin Seeds and fry till they crackle.
3. Now add the Chillies and Curry Leaves and fry for 2 mins.
4. Add the Onions and fry till they turn golden brown.
5. Add the Red Chilli and Turmeric Powders and fry for a minute taking care the powders don't burn.
6. Add the Tomatoes and cook till the oil separates.
7. Add the Prawns drained Rice and Salt and mix well.
8. Add water and bring to boil.
9. Reduce to sim and cover and cook till done.
10. Garnish with Coriander Leaves and serve with Raita or on its own.

I always end up breaking the rice in my pulaos. I don't add too much water and I don't mix too much. Any suggestions on how to keep the rice intact would be helpful.