Easy & Flavorful Beef Pulao Recipe

 In this post, I’ll walk you through a simple and authentic beef pulao recipe just like our moms and grandmothers used to make.

It’s packed with deep flavors, uses basic pantry spices, and the best part it comes together in one pot! Ready to bring this classic to your table? Let’s get started.

📝 Ingredients

For the Yakhni (Beef Stock):

• ½ kg beef with bones (preferably shank or ribs)
  
  

• 1 large onion (peeled and halved)
  
  

• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  
  

• 1 teaspoon salt
  
  

• 6 cups water
  
  

• Whole spices:
  
  

• 1 bay leaf
  
  

• 4 black peppercorns
  
  

• 4 cloves
  
  

• 1 black cardamom
  
  

• 1 small cinnamon stic

 For the Pulao:

• 2 cups basmati rice (soaked for 30 minutes)
  
  

• 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
  
  

• 1 medium tomato (chopped)
  
  

• ½ cup yogurt
  
  

• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
  
  

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  
  

• 1 teaspoon garam masala
  
  

• Salt to taste
  
  

• Green chilies and fresh coriander (for garnish)
  

  🍳 Instructions

  1. Make the Yakhni (Beef Stock)

  In a large pot, add beef, onion, ginger-garlic paste, salt, whole spices, and water. Cover and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender. Strain the stock and set both beef and yakhni aside.

  2. Prepare the Masala Base

  In a separate heavy-bottom pot, heat oil or ghee. Add sliced onions and fry until golden brown. Add chopped tomato and cook until soft. Stir in yogurt, garam masala, and salt. Sauté the beef pieces into this masala and cook for 5–7 minutes for extra flavor.

  3. Add Rice and Cook

  Add the strained yakhni to the pot (you’ll need about 4 cups). Let it come to a boil. Then add soaked rice. Cook uncovered until the water level drops to the rice surface. Cover with lid, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes. Turn off heat and let it sit for 10 minutes before fluffing.

  
  
  

  🌟 Tips for Perfect Pulao

  • Use long grain basmati rice for best texture.
    
    

  • Browning the onions well gives that classic pulao color and flavor.

    
    

  • Always let the rice rest after cooking it keeps it fluffy!

    🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Beef pulao goes wonderfully with:

• Raita (cucumber yogurt sauce)

• Kachumber salad (onion, cucumber, tomato)

 ❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Just reduce the cooking time. Chicken pulao is equally flavorful and cooks much faster (around 30 minutes total).

How can I store leftovers?

Let pulao cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan with a splash of water or microwave.

Enjoy this hearty beef pulao with your loved ones and don’t forget to share your feedback in the comments!