Chicken Biryani is the ultimate food masterpiece, bringing me joy and a sense of perfection. I may not be a biryani pro, but with the right Pittal Handi (See Picture), I could take it to the next level!
Here is super simple recipe if you want to try at home.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 1 lb (about 500g) chicken pieces (thighs or breasts), cut into chunks
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 2-3 tablespoons biryani masala (adjust according to taste)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust according to taste)
- Asafetida
- 2 pinches Cinnamon Power
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (coriander) leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons oil and 4 ghee ( the mix prevent the burn and adds flavor)
- 4 cups water
- Salt to taste
- Saffron strands soaked in 2 tablespoons warm milk (optional)
- Whole spices: 3 bay leaves, 10 Cashews, Some Raisin
- Fried onions to garnish
Instructions:
1. **Rinse the Rice:** Rinse basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 30 minutes. Then drain.
2. **Marinate the Chicken:** In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with yogurt, half of the ginger-garlic paste, half of the biryani masala, turmeric, red chili powder, a pinch of cinamon powder, 2 drops of rose water, asaphoitida and salt. Let it marinate for at least overnight.
3. **Cook the Onions:** In a large pot or a deep pan, heat oil and ghee. Add the whole spices if using, pinch of cinamon. remaining ginger-garlic paste, and biryani masala. Cook until the onions are caramelize and the oil begins to separate.
4. ** Cook the Chicken** Add chicken and streer well untill it's 80-90% cooked. You will know when the the water is dried and oil is separated from the chicken. (See Picture)
5. **Add the Rice:** Add rice and and water just enough to covers the rice. and add water as you need (until you see that rice is cooked well). high heat for 5-7 minutes then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water has been absorbed.
6. **Rest and Serve:** Let the biryani rest for a few minutes after cooking. Garnish with the fried onions, cilantros, Kesar and milk.
7. **Enjoy:** Serve the chicken biryani hot with raita (yogurt sauce) or your choice of side, or just by itself.
This simplified recipe captures the essence of chicken biryani, making it accessible for a home cook without compromising on flavor, making it healthy and affordable. You know what's in it. Enjoy your cooking!