Classic Biryani Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Basmati rice
- 1 lb chicken (or substitute with mixed vegetables for a vegetarian option)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cooking oil
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Saffron strands, soaked in 1/4 cup warm milk
- Lemon slices and fried onions, for garnish
Instructions:
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Rice Preparation: Rinse the Basmati rice until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for 30 minutes, then drain. Boil the rice with a pinch of salt until it's 70% cooked. Drain and set aside.
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Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken (or veggies) with yogurt, half of the ginger-garlic paste, chili powder, turmeric, salt, and half of the garam masala. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour.
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Fry the Onions: Heat oil in a large pan. Add the sliced onions and fry until golden brown. Remove half for garnishing and leave the rest in the pan.
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Cook the Chicken: To the pan, add the remaining ginger-garlic paste, tomatoes, and marinated chicken. Cook over medium heat until the chicken is tender. For a vegetarian option, cook until the vegetables are tender.
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Layering: In a large pot, layer half of the cooked rice, followed by the cooked chicken (or vegetables), mint, cilantro, and the remaining garam masala. Top with the remaining rice. Drizzle the saffron-infused milk over the top.
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Cook: Cover and cook on a low flame for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Serve: Garnish with fried onions, fresh cilantro, mint, and lemon slices. Serve hot.
Enjoy the authentic taste of Biryani, a celebration of Indian cuisine's rich flavors and aromas, perfect for any festive occasion or a comforting meal at home.
