Parda Pulao is a dish where soft rice, aromatic spices, and a mixture of vegetables and chicken are cooked inside a "parda," which is a layer of dough. It is visually appealing and incredibly rich in flavor.

Ingredients (for 4–5 servings)
For the Pulao:
Basmati rice – 2 cups
Oil/Ghee – 2 tablespoons
Bay leaf – 1
Cinnamon stick – 1
Cloves – 3
Cardamom pods – 2
Onion – 1, thinly sliced
Mixed vegetables – 1 cup (carrots, peas, beans)
Yogurt – 2 tablespoons
Turmeric powder – ½ teaspoon
Garam masala – ½ teaspoon
Salt – to taste
For the Parda (Dough):
All-purpose flour – 2 cups
Salt – ½ teaspoon
Oil – 2 tablespoons
Water – as needed

What is the layer inside which the rice and spices are cooked in Parda Pulao?
A. Leaf layer
B. Egg layer
C. Cheese layer
D. Dough layer

Parda Pulao Recipe

1. Prepare the dough
Combine flour, salt, and oil, and knead into a firm dough.
Cover and let it rest for 20 minutes.
This dough will later form the "parda" of the pulao.

2. Cook the rice
Wash the rice and boil it until 70% cooked (half-cooked).
Drain the water and set aside.

3. Prepare the pulao mixture
Heat the ghee in a pan.
Add bay leaf, cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom, and sauté.
Sauté the onions until golden brown.
Now add the vegetables and cook for 3 minutes.
Add yogurt, turmeric powder, salt, and garam masala.
Now add the half-cooked rice and mix gently.
This mixture should not be too wet; otherwise, the dough will become soggy.

4. Prepare the parda
Roll out the dough into a large, thin circle.
Lightly grease a pan/baking pot.
Now spread the rolled-out dough in the pot in such a way that the edges hang over the sides.

5. Fill the dough with the pulao
Pour the pulao mixture into the dough-lined pot.
Fold the overhanging dough over the top to completely seal it.
Brush a little ghee over the top.

6. Cooking method
On the stovetop:
Place the pot on a griddle and cook over low heat for 20–25 minutes.
In the oven:
Bake at 180°C for 25 minutes.
It's done when the crust is crispy and lightly golden brown.

Serving suggestion
Serve the hot Pardah Pulao by cutting it with a knife.
Each slice reveals the fragrant pulao and the crispy crust on top, truly a royal-style dish.
Pardah Pulao is a perfect recipe for special occasions or for guests.
Once you make it at home, its rich, aromatic, and unique taste will make you want to make it again and again.

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