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Briyani

A flavorful and aromatic one-pot dish made with basmati rice and marinated meat or vegetables, perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 1 lb chicken or lamb cut into pieces
  • 1 large onion thinly sliced
  • 2 tomatoes chopped
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 3 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
  • 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/4 cup cooking oil or ghee
  • 2 teaspoons cumin seeds
  • 2 teaspoons coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 4 whole cloves
  • 2 cardamom pods
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • Salt to taste
  • 4 cups water

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. In a bowl, mix the chicken or lamb with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, coriander, turmeric, and salt. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Heat oil or ghee in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and fry until golden brown.
  4. Add cumin seeds, cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon to the pot. Sauté for a minute.
  5. Stir in the marinated meat and cook until browned.
  6. Incorporate the chopped tomatoes, mint, and cilantro. Cook until the tomatoes are softened.
  7. Spread the rinsed basmati rice evenly over the meat mixture. Pour the water over the rice and bring it to a boil.
  8. Cover the pot with a tight lid and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 30 minutes.
  9. Fluff the rice with a fork and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve with cucumber raita, salad, or warm naan for a complete meal.