Beef Pilau recipe served on a plate, by Fatima's Cafe
Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsFatima's CafeBeef Pilau Recipe

Beef Pilau Recipe

Inspired by Fatima's Cafe
Time1h
Serves4

A flavorful rice dish cooked with beef and spices.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

Spices

Liquid

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Rinse the Rice

    In a large bowl, rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps to keep the rice fluffy.

  2. 2

    Soak the Rice

    Soak the rinsed rice in water for about 30 minutes. Drain before cooking.

Cooking

  1. 3

    Sauté Onions and Spices

    In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the cumin seeds, minced garlic, and grated ginger, stirring for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

  2. 4

    Brown the Beef

    Add the cubed beef to the pot, season with salt, black pepper, coriander powder, turmeric, and garam masala. Cook until the beef is browned on all sides, approximately 7-10 minutes.

  3. 5

    Add Vegetables

    Stir in the chopped tomato, sliced bell pepper, and carrot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.

  4. 6

    Add Water and Rice

    Pour in 4 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the soaked and drained basmati rice. Stir gently to combine.

  5. 7

    Cook the Pilau

    Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

  6. 8

    Fluff and Serve

    Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

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