Aromatic, rich, and deeply comforting, this pilau recipe is inspired by the heart of Tanzania and the flavours of Kantabile Afrika. Using the freshest local ingredients, this dish brings a taste of your safari back home to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 cups basmati rice, rinsed
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil (or ghee for richness)
- 1 large red onion, finely sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 serrano chili, finely chopped (adjust for spice preference)
- 2 tsp homemade pilau masala (toasted and ground cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, black pepper, cloves)
- 1-2 bay leaves
- 1 lb beef sirloin cubed
- Homemade beef stock
- 1 ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 cups water or stock
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Method
1. Toast the Pilau Masala: Lightly toast cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, black pepper, and cloves in a dry pan over low heat until aromatic. Grind into a fine powder.
2. Caramelise the Onions: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until deep golden brown, stirring occasionally (about 10-15 minutes).
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Stir in the garlic, ginger, and chili. Let them release their flavours for about 1-2 minutes.
4. Build the Flavour: Add the cubed beef, pilau masala, bay leaves, homemade beef stock, and salt. Stir well, then add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down into a thick sauce.
5. Brown the Meat : Add the beef and cook until well-browned and coated in spices.
6. Cook the Potatoes: Stir in the cubed potatoes and pour in the water or stock. Bring to a boil and let the potatoes simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Add the Rice: Stir in the rinsed basmati rice. Cover the pot tightly with a lid (or place aluminum foil first to trap steam) and reduce the heat to low.
8. Cook: Allow the pilau to cook for 20 minutes, undisturbed, until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is fluffy.
9. Fluff & Serve: Remove from heat, let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff gently with a fork. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve warm.
Best enjoyed under the vast African sky, but just as magical in your home kitchen!
