What is kabuli pulao? It is the national dish of Afghanistan, made from fragrant steamed rice. First, cooks flavour basmati rice with warm spices. Then they top it with sweet carrots, raisins and tender meat. As a result, it balances savoury and subtly sweet flavours. Many people also call it qabili palau.
In this guide, we explain where kabuli pulao comes from and what goes into it. We also cover how it tastes and how it is served. Finally, we show you where to try it in Kuala Lumpur.
The origin of kabuli pulao
Kabuli pulao comes from Afghanistan, where it holds pride of place. In fact, families serve it at weddings and celebrations. Over time, it spread across the region and beyond. Today, you will find it in restaurants worldwide. Still, its heart remains in Afghan kitchens.
What is kabuli pulao made of?
So what goes into kabuli pulao? It relies on a few key parts:
- Basmati rice: long-grain and fragrant.
- Meat: usually lamb or beef.
- Carrots: sweet, julienned and lightly caramelised.
- Raisins and spices: cumin, cardamom and cloves.
Together, these parts create a rich, aromatic plate. Above all, the sweet carrots and raisins set it apart.
How it is made
Making it takes patience. First, cooks brown the meat and build a spiced stock. Then they steam the rice over the stock until fluffy. Next, they sauté carrots and raisins until sweet. Finally, they pile everything together and serve it warm.
What does it taste like?
It tastes savoury, warm and gently sweet. The rice is fragrant and fluffy. Meanwhile, the carrots and raisins add pops of sweetness. Because the meat is tender, every bite feels hearty. So it is comfort food at its best.
Kabuli pulao at Lalezar
At Lalezar, we serve kabuli pulao with your choice of kebab. Pick the pairing you love best:
- Paired with tender beef barg kebab.
- Paired with chicken and beef bakhtiari kebabs.
- Paired with spiced minced-lamb Adana kebab.
- Paired with a mix of chicken and lamb kebabs.
So there is a version for every taste.
Is kabuli pulao halal?
Is kabuli pulao halal? Yes, when the kitchen prepares it that way. The rice, meat and spices can all meet halal standards. Of course, a halal kitchen sources every ingredient carefully. At Lalezar, we prepare every dish halal.
Where to try kabuli pulao in Kuala Lumpur
Feeling hungry? Then come and try kabuli pulao at Lalezar, a halal Turkish, Mediterranean and Persian restaurant in Kuala Lumpur. Alongside it, you will also find kebabs, stews and fresh mezze. So explore the full Lalezar menu, or find your nearest branch. We welcome you across three locations: Ampang, USJ Heights and Centrepoint Bandar Utama.
Frequently asked questions
What is kabuli pulao in simple terms?
Simply put, it is fragrant Afghan rice topped with sweet carrots, raisins and tender meat.
Is it the same as biryani?
No. Both are spiced rice dishes. However, kabuli pulao is milder and subtly sweet, while biryani is spicier and layered.
What meat is used?
Traditionally lamb, though beef is common too. At Lalezar, you can pair it with several kebabs.