Diwani Handi Mutton Pulao is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish, perfect for special occasions like Ramadan. This rich and aromatic recipe combines tender mutton, fragrant basmati rice, and a medley of warming spices, creating a culinary masterpiece that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to prepare. The name "Diwani Handi" evokes images of a traditional earthen pot, lending an authentic touch to this already delectable dish. Imagine the succulent mutton, infused with the subtle sweetness of caramelized onions and the exotic warmth of cardamom and cloves. The rice, cooked to fluffy perfection, absorbs the delicious flavors of the mutton and spices, resulting in a dish that's truly unforgettable.
This recipe simplifies the traditional Diwani Handi preparation, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. We’ll guide you through each step, from marinating the mutton to layering the rice and spices in the handi (or a regular pot), ensuring you achieve perfect results every time. Ready to embark on this culinary journey and create your own delicious Diwani Handi Mutton Pulao? Let's get started!
Tools Needed
- Cooker
- Pot
Ingredients
- Mutton: 0.5 kg (boneless)
- Basmati Rice
- Tomatoes: 4 large
- Onion: 1 large
- Curd (Yogurt): 0.25 kg
- Garam Masala Powder
- Mint
- Fenugreek Leaves
- Ginger-Garlic Paste: 2 tbsp
- Green Chilies: 4-5
- Lemon: 1
- Kothmir (Coriander)
- Whole Garam Masala
- Black Peppercorns: 10-15
- Cloves: 4
- Shah Jeera (Caraway Seeds)
- Mace: 1
- Big Cardamom: 2
- Cinnamon: 1 piece
- Small Cardamom: 3
- Bay Leaf: 2
- Turmeric Powder: 0.5 tbsp
- Coriander Powder: 1 tbsp
- Red Chili Powder: 1 tbsp
- Kashmiri Red Chili Powder: 0.5 tbsp
- Cumin Powder: 1 tbsp
- Kewda Essence: 2 drops
- Salt
- Ghee (Clarified Butter): 1 tbsp
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Marinate and Pressure Cook the Mutton
- In a cooker, add mutton, one onion, four tomatoes, curd, whole garam masala (big cardamom, mace, cinnamon, bay leaves, green cardamom, black peppercorns, cloves, cumin seeds), green chilies, ginger-garlic paste, coriander, mint, and dry spices (turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, Kashmiri chili powder, cumin powder).
- Add lemon juice and salt (adjust as per mutton). Add one glass of water and let it whistle 6-7 times.

Step 2. Sauté the Cooked Mutton
- Once cooked, let it cool. Transfer to a pot. Gently fry for 2-5 minutes on high flame.
- Add fenugreek leaves, mint, coriander, and garam masala powder. Add 2 glasses of water (slightly less than 2, as mutton already had water).


Step 3. Combine with Rice and Simmer
- Add the soaked rice, kewda essence, and additional salt to taste. Stir gently.
- Cover and cook on low flame for 10-15 minutes. After one whistle, slow down the gas. Cook for another 1-2 minutes on dum, adding some coriander and mint. Add ghee.
- Cover and let it simmer for 2 minutes on very low flame.


Step 4. Prepare the Rice
- Wash and soak Basmati rice for 45 minutes.

Read more: Spicy Tava Pulao Recipe: Easy Indian Rice Dish
Tips
- Soaking rice for 1-2 hours results in softer, longer rice.
- Adjust chili quantity for desired spiciness.
- Add more lemon juice for a sourer pulao.
- Cooking loosely prevents the need for extra gas.
- If using chicken instead of mutton, reduce frying time and adjust cooking time accordingly. There's no need to use a cooker for chicken.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a regular pot instead of a handi?
Absolutely! A heavy-bottomed pot will work perfectly well as a substitute for a traditional handi.
2. Can I prepare the Diwani Handi Mutton Pulao ahead of time?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the marinated mutton a day in advance. Assemble the pulao just before cooking for the best results.
This quick and easy Diwani Handi Mutton Pulao recipe is a perfect addition to your Ramadan feast, impressing your family and guests with its rich flavors and aromatic spices. Enjoy the satisfying blend of tender mutton and fluffy rice, a comforting and celebratory dish for this special time of year. May your Ramadan be filled with delicious food and cherished moments with loved ones!