2teaspoonMadras Curry Powder or Garam Masala Powder
½teaspoonRed Chilli PowderOptional
1teaspoonSmoked Paprika
2teaspoonSalt
1teaspoonGround Black Pepper
2 tbspFresh Coriander Chopped
2 - 3tablespoonOilVegetable
Pulao
2tablespoonGhee
1teaspoonCumin Seeds
1teaspoonCoriander Seeds
5Peppercorns
4Cloves
SmallCinnamon Stick
1OnionDiced finely
1heaped tspGarlic Paste
1heaped tspGinger Paste
1heaped tspGreen Chilli Paste
2cupsBasmati RiceSoaked for 30 minutes (see Tips and Tricks)
4 cupsChicken Stockor Boiled Water
2 teaspoonSalt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the MeatballsDice the Onions, then place in a muslin cloth and squeeze out as much water as you can. In a large shallow bowl combine the minced meat, onion, chilli paste, ginger and garlic paste, cumin powder, corainder powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, garam masala or madras curry powder, red chilli powder and fresh coriander. Knead and mix thoroughly with wet hands until fully combined.Shape into small meatballs using lightly oiled hands
Step 2: Brown the MeatballsHeat oil in a large heavy bottomed pot or pan. Sear the meatballs until browned on all sides. 2-3 minutes is enough. They don’t need to cook through completely at this stage. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Pulao BaseIn the same pot add Ghee. Then add Cumin Seeds, Corainder Seeds, Peppercorns, Cloves and Cinnamon Stick. Stir in the Onions. Cook until golden and fragrant. About 15 minutes. Add garlic, ginger and green chilli and saute for a minute.
Step 4: Add Rice and MeatballsDrain soaked basmati rice, add to the pot along with the stock or water and gently stir to coat the grains in the masala. Bring to a simmer and cook until most of the stock has evaporated. Place the browned meatballs on top.
Step 5: Steam Until FluffyCover tightly and place the pot in the oven at 220 C, 200 fan, Gas Mark 7 and cook for 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is fluffy and the meatballs are fully cooked. Allow the pulao to rest for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This One Pot Seekh Kebab Meatballs and Pulao is delicious on its own but the right sides take it to another level. Serve it with:
Soak the basmati rice for at least 30 minutes for fluffy grains. If you do not have the time for this step, wash the rice in 2-3 changes of water until the water from the fine mesh strainer runs clear.
Use a heavy bottomed pot to prevent sticking.
Brown the meatballs well for extra flavour.
Avoid stirring the rice too much once the liquid is added.
Storage
One of the reasons we’ve been loving this recipe for meal prep is how well it stores! Fridge - Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat sprinkle a little water over the rice before microwaving or steaming to keep it moist and fluffy. Freezer - This dish also freezes beautifully for up to 2 months making it ideal for busy weeks.
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to switch things up depending on what you have at home or what you’re craving that week.Chicken Seekh Meatballs - Swap lamb or beef for minced chicken for a lighter version. Try these Chicken Kebabs but shape into meatballs. Extra Spicy - Add more green chillies and freshly cracked black pepper. Vegetable Boost - Add peas, diced potatoes, carrots or peppers to the rice. Smoky Restaurant Style - Use the charcoal smoke method dhungar before serving for a smoky finish. Mini Meal Prep Bowls - Portion into containers with raita and salad for easy grab and go lunches throughout the week.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare and brown the meatballs a day in advance to save time.
What rice works best for pulao?
Aged basmati rice gives the best texture and aroma.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Cool completely before freezing in airtight containers.