Pakistani Bhagar Walay Chawal Stir Fried Rice or Zanzibari Pul

Elevate your rice game with this aromatic and flavor-packed recipe for Pakistani Bhagar Walay Chawal Stir-Fried Rice, also known as Zanzibari Pul. This one-pan dish features fragrant basmati rice infused with warm spices like cumin, cinnamon, and cardamom, all brought to life in rich ghee. Thinly sliced golden onions, garlic, and a hint of green chili (optional for spice lovers) create a perfectly balanced base, while fresh cilantro adds a vibrant finishing touch. Quick to prepare, this versatile recipe makes an ideal side dish for curries, kebabs, or even a standalone meal. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or satisfying a weeknight craving, this simple yet sophisticated rice dish is sure to impress.

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups Basmati rice
• 4 cups Water
• 1.5 teaspoons Salt
• 4 tablespoons Ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 3 pieces Green cardamom pods
• 4 pieces Cloves
• 1 2-inch piece Cinnamon stick
• 1 medium (thinly sliced) Onion
• 2 minced Garlic cloves
• 1 minced Green chili (optional)
• 2 tablespoons (chopped) Fresh cilantro

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 15-20 minutes, then drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a medium pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and the soaked, drained rice. Cook the rice for 7-10 minutes or until it is about 90% done (firm but cooked through). Drain the rice and set it aside.

Step 3

In a large skillet or wok, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, cardamom pods, cloves, and cinnamon stick, and sauté for 30 seconds to release their aroma.

Step 4

Add the thinly sliced onion and cook until golden brown, stirring frequently, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5

Stir in the minced garlic and green chili (if using) and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 6

Gently add the cooked rice to the skillet, tossing lightly to combine it with the spiced onion mixture. Be careful not to break the rice grains.

Step 7

Add the remaining 0.5 teaspoon of salt, and mix thoroughly. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the rice steam for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 8

Turn off the heat and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

Step 9

Serve Bhagar Walay Chawal warm with your favorite curry, kebabs, or enjoy it on its own!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1614.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1121.7

Total Fat 60.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 36.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 145.4mg	0%
Sodium 3612.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 128.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 9.2g	0%
Total Sugars 8.1g
Protein 18.1g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 261.8mg	0%
Iron 10.1mg	0%
Potassium 668.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 48.1%

Protein: 6.4%

Carbs: 45.5%