Biryani, a flavorful and aromatic dish, has various regional variations worldwide. Determining the “best” biryani can be subjective, as preferences vary. However, some biryanis are renowned globally for their unique flavors and cooking techniques. Here are some of the world’s best biryanis:
Table of Contents
Top 10 world’s best biryani’s
- Hyderabadi Biryani (India):
- Fragrant basmati rice layered with marinated meat (chicken or mutton) and slow-cooked with aromatic spices.
- Known for its distinct flavor, the Hyderabadi biryani often includes herbs, saffron, and fried onions.
- Lucknawi Biryani (India):
- Originating from Lucknow, it is a form of Awadhi biryani known for its tender meat, fragrant rice, and use of saffron and rose water.
- Kewra water and spices contribute to its royal taste.
- Calcutta Biryani (India):
- A specialty of Kolkata, it is a unique biryani that includes potato along with meat.
- Lightly spiced and aromatic, it often features large, succulent pieces of meat.
- Dum Biryani (Pakistan):
- Prepared with marinated meat and basmati rice, Dum Biryani is slow-cooked in a sealed pot, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Popular variations include Karachi Biryani and Sindhi Biryani.
- Istanbul Biryani (Turkey):
- Known as “Istanbul Pilaf” or “Hünkar Beğendi,” this Turkish biryani features slow-cooked meat served on a bed of creamy eggplant purée.
- It combines Middle Eastern and Turkish culinary influences.
- Iranian Biryani (Iran):
- Persian biryanis often feature saffron-infused rice and are layered with marinated meat, dried fruits, and nuts.
- Baghali Polo, a variation with dill and fava beans, is popular.
- Kabsa (Saudi Arabia):
- A traditional Arabian rice dish, Kabsa often includes meat (such as chicken, lamb, or goat) and a mix of aromatic spices.
- It is widely enjoyed in the Middle East and is a staple during festive occasions.
- Mandi (Yemen):
- A fragrant rice dish cooked with meat (usually lamb) and a blend of aromatic spices.
- The meat is slow-cooked until tender, and the dish is often garnished with nuts.
- Nasi Briyani (Malaysia):
- Malaysian Nasi Briyani features fragrant rice cooked with spices, herbs, and meat (chicken, beef, or mutton).
- It reflects the diverse culinary influences in Malaysia.
- Thalassery Biryani (India):
- Hailing from the Malabar region of Kerala, Thalassery Biryani uses a special biryani masala and small-grain Khaima/Jeerakasala rice.
- It often includes fried onions, raisins, and cashews.
These biryanis showcase the diverse and rich culinary heritage across different regions, each contributing its unique twist to this beloved dish. The “best” biryani ultimately depends on individual taste preferences.
Best biryani’s and Cooking Procedure and location:
Hyderabadi Biryani Cooking Details:
Hyderabadi Biryani is a delicious and aromatic dish that involves layers of marinated meat and partially cooked basmati rice, all infused with rich spices. Here’s a simplified recipe for making Hyderabadi Biryani at home:
Ingredients:
- 500g meat (chicken or mutton)
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1 cup fried onions
- 1/2 cup cooking oil or ghee
- 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped coriander leaves
- 1/4 cup cashews and raisins (optional)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- Whole spices (bay leaves, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon)
- Biryani masala powder
- Saffron strands soaked in milk
- Salt to taste
Procedure:
- Marinate the meat with yogurt, biryani masala powder, ginger-garlic paste, mint, coriander leaves, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours.
- Parboil the basmati rice with whole spices until it’s 70-80% cooked. Drain excess water.
- In a deep pan, layer the partially cooked rice over the marinated meat.
- Drizzle saffron-infused milk, fried onions, and ghee over the rice.
- Seal the pan with a tight-fitting lid or aluminum foil. Cook on low heat for about 30-40 minutes until the meat is tender, and the rice is fully cooked.
- Gently fluff the rice and meat layers before serving.
Best Restaurants for Hyderabadi Biryani:
Hyderabad is renowned for its Biryani, and several restaurants in the city are known for serving authentic and mouth-watering Hyderabadi Biryani. Here are a few popular choices:
- Paradise Biryani:
- Known for its iconic Hyderabadi Biryani, Paradise has been a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
- Address: Paradise Circle, Secunderabad, and various other locations.
- Bawarchi:
- Famous for its flavorful biryani, Bawarchi is a go-to place for Biryani enthusiasts.
- Address: RTC Cross Roads, Chikkadpally, and other locations.
- Shah Ghouse Café:
- This place is celebrated for its delectable biryani, both in the traditional and dum style.
- Address: Charminar, Gachibowli, and other locations.
- Behrouz Biryani:
- A modern take on the traditional biryani, Behrouz Biryani offers a variety of biryanis with rich flavors.
- Available for online orders.
- Hotel Shadab:
- Shadab is known for its authentic Hyderabadi cuisine, and its biryani is a must-try.
- Address: High Court Road, Ghansi Bazaar.
Remember that these are just a few options, and Hyderabad boasts numerous eateries and local joints where you can savor the true essence of Hyderabadi Biryani.
Lucknawi Biryani (India) Cooking Details:
Lucknawi Biryani, also known as Awadhi Biryani, is a Mughlai-inspired delicacy known for its rich flavors and aromatic spices. Here’s a simplified recipe for preparing Lucknawi Biryani at home:
Ingredients:
- 500g meat (chicken or mutton)
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1/2 cup ghee or cooking oil
- 1/4 cup fried onions
- 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped coriander leaves
- 1/4 cup cashews and raisins (optional)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- Whole spices (bay leaves, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon)
- Biryani masala powder
- Saffron strands soaked in milk
- Kewra water (screw pine essence)
- Salt to taste
Procedure:
- Marinate the meat with yogurt, biryani masala powder, ginger-garlic paste, mint, coriander leaves, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours.
- Parboil the basmati rice with whole spices until it’s 70-80% cooked. Drain excess water.
- In a deep pan, layer the partially cooked rice over the marinated meat.
- Drizzle saffron-infused milk, fried onions, kewra water, and ghee over the rice.
- Seal the pan with a tight-fitting lid or aluminum foil. Cook on low heat for about 30-40 minutes until the meat is tender, and the rice is fully cooked.
- Gently fluff the rice and meat layers before serving.
Best Restaurants for Lucknawi Biryani:
Lucknow, the city of Nawabs, is renowned for its Awadhi cuisine, and Lucknawi Biryani holds a special place in the culinary landscape. Here are some popular places to savor authentic Lucknawi Biryani:
- Idris Biryani:
- A legendary eatery known for its delicious and traditional Lucknawi Biryani.
- Address: Opposite Patanala Police Station, Chowk, Lucknow.
- Tunday Kababi:
- Famous for its kebabs, Tunday Kababi also serves a delectable Lucknawi Biryani.
- Address: Akbari Gate, Chowk, Lucknow.
- Dastarkhwan:
- Dastarkhwan is a popular restaurant offering a variety of Awadhi dishes, including flavorful Lucknawi Biryani.
- Address: Hazratganj, Lucknow.
- Royal Café:
- Known for its royal ambiance and delectable Lucknawi Biryani, Royal Café is a favorite among locals.
- Address: Hazratganj, Lucknow.
- Naushijaan:
- This restaurant is celebrated for its authentic Awadhi cuisine, with Lucknawi Biryani being a highlight.
- Address: Gomti Nagar, Lucknow.
Lucknawi Biryani is a culinary delight that reflects the rich heritage and flavors of Lucknow. While these are some popular eateries, exploring the local streets and markets of Lucknow can lead you to hidden gems serving the best Lucknawi Biryani.
Calcutta Biryani Cooking Details:
Calcutta Biryani, also known as Kolkata Biryani, is a delectable blend of fragrant rice, succulent meat, and aromatic spices. Here’s a simple recipe to prepare Calcutta Biryani at home:
Ingredients:
- 500g meat (chicken or mutton)
- 2 cups Basmati rice
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and halved
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1/2 cup ghee or cooking oil
- 1/4 cup fried onions
- 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped coriander leaves
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- Whole spices (bay leaves, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon)
- Biryani masala powder
- Saffron strands soaked in milk
- Kewra water (screw pine essence)
- Salt to taste
Procedure:
- Marinate the meat with yogurt, biryani masala powder, ginger-garlic paste, mint, coriander leaves, and salt. Allow it to marinate for at least 2 hours.
- Parboil Basmati rice with whole spices until 70-80% cooked. Drain excess water.
- In a deep pan, layer the partially cooked rice over the marinated meat.
- Add potatoes and drizzle saffron-infused milk, fried onions, kewra water, and ghee over the rice.
- Seal the pan with a tight-fitting lid or aluminum foil. Cook on low heat for about 30-40 minutes until the meat is tender, and the rice is fully cooked.
- Gently mix the rice and meat layers before serving.
Best Restaurants for Calcutta Biryani:
Kolkata is renowned for its unique Biryani, and several eateries have perfected the art of preparing this delicious dish. Here are some popular places to enjoy authentic Calcutta Biryani:
- Arsalan:
- Arsalan is a well-known restaurant for its flavorful and authentic Calcutta Biryani.
- Address: 226/1B, Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Road, Kolkata.
- Shiraz Golden Restaurant:
- This iconic eatery has been serving delicious Calcutta Biryani for decades.
- Address: 135, Park Street, Kolkata.
- Aminia:
- Aminia is famous for its Kolkata Biryani, attracting biryani enthusiasts from across the city.
- Address: 6A, SN Banerjee Road, Kolkata.
- Dada Boudi Hotel:
- Known for its affordable and tasty Calcutta Biryani, Dada Boudi Hotel is a favorite among locals.
- Address: 88B, College Street, Kolkata.
- Royal Indian Hotel:
- This old and esteemed eatery is known for its traditional Kolkata Biryani preparation.
- Address: 147, Rabindra Sarani, Kolkata.
These restaurants offer an authentic taste of Calcutta Biryani, each with its unique blend of spices and preparation techniques. While exploring Kolkata’s culinary scene, don’t miss the chance to savor this iconic biryani in its place of origin.
Dum Biryani Cooking Details:
Dum Biryani, a cherished dish in Pakistan, is known for its aromatic rice, tender meat, and rich blend of spices. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing Dum Biryani at home:
Ingredients:
- 500g meat (chicken, mutton, or beef)
- 2 cups Basmati rice
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced and fried until golden brown
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1/2 cup cooking oil or ghee
- 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped coriander leaves
- 1/4 cup fried onions for garnish
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- Whole spices (bay leaves, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon)
- Biryani masala powder
- Saffron strands soaked in milk
- Kewra water (screw pine essence)
- Salt to taste
Procedure:
- Marinate the meat with yogurt, biryani masala powder, ginger-garlic paste, mint, coriander leaves, and salt. Allow it to marinate for at least 2 hours.
- Parboil Basmati rice with whole spices until 70-80% cooked. Drain excess water.
- In a deep pan, layer the partially cooked rice over the marinated meat.
- Drizzle saffron-infused milk, fried onions, kewra water, and cooking oil or ghee over the rice.
- Seal the pan with a tight-fitting lid or aluminum foil. Cook on low heat for about 30-40 minutes until the meat is tender, and the rice is fully cooked.
- Gently mix the rice and meat layers before serving. Garnish with fried onions.
Best Restaurants for Dum Biryani in Pakistan:
Pakistan boasts several eateries celebrated for their Dum Biryani, offering a delightful culinary experience. Here are some top places to relish Dum Biryani:
- Student Biryani:
- A popular chain known for its flavorful Dum Biryani, with branches across major cities.
- Locations: Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and more.
- Biryani of the Seas:
- Renowned for its diverse biryani options, this restaurant is a go-to for biryani enthusiasts.
- Location: Karachi.
- Kaybees:
- With a longstanding reputation, Kaybees serves delicious Dum Biryani alongside other Pakistani dishes.
- Locations: Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and more.
- Zameer Ansari Biryani:
- A local favorite in Karachi, Zameer Ansari Biryani is praised for its authentic and flavorful Dum Biryani.
- Location: Karachi.
- Food Center Lahore:
- A popular spot in Lahore, Food Center is known for its delectable Dum Biryani.
- Location: Lahore.
These restaurants are celebrated for their Dum Biryani, capturing the essence of Pakistani flavors. Enjoy the rich aroma and taste of this iconic dish at these renowned eateries.
Istanbul Biryani Cooking Details:
While Istanbul is renowned for its diverse culinary offerings, traditional Biryani may not be a staple. However, you can bring the essence of Biryani to your kitchen with this inspired recipe:
Istanbul-Inspired Biryani: Note: This recipe incorporates local flavors and elements.
Ingredients:
- 500g chicken or lamb, cut into pieces
- 2 cups Basmati rice
- 1 large onion, finely sliced
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped mint
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Biryani spice mix or a blend of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Saffron threads soaked in warm water
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Procedure:
- Marinate the meat in yogurt, olive oil, tomato paste, minced garlic, Biryani spice mix, salt, and pepper. Allow it to marinate for at least 2 hours.
- Rinse Basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice for 30 minutes.
- In a deep pan, sauté sliced onions until golden brown. Add the marinated meat and cook until browned.
- Layer the partially cooked rice over the meat. Pour saffron-infused water and broth over the rice.
- Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid or aluminum foil. Cook on low heat until the rice is fully cooked and the meat is tender.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and mint before serving.
Best Restaurants for Biryani in Istanbul:
While Biryani may not be a traditional Turkish dish, Istanbul offers a plethora of culinary delights. For an array of mouth-watering options, explore these notable restaurants:
- Ciya Sofrası:
- Renowned for its diverse Turkish cuisine, Ciya Sofrası offers an array of flavorful dishes.
- Location: Güneşlibahçe Sokak No:43, 34660 Üsküdar/İstanbul, Turkey.
- Mikla:
- As a contemporary restaurant, Mikla provides a unique blend of Turkish and Scandinavian influences.
- Location: Meşrutiyet Caddesi 15th Floor, The Marmara Pera, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey.
- Karakoy Gulluoglu:
- Famous for its baklava, Karakoy Gulluoglu offers sweet treats as you explore Istanbul’s culinary scene.
- Location: Rıhtım Caddesi Katotopçu Sk. No:1, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey.
- Nusr-Et Steakhouse:
- If you’re in the mood for a unique dining experience, Nusr-Et is renowned for its steak and lively atmosphere.
- Location: Kuruçeşme Mahallesi, Yahya Kemal Cd. No:4, 34345 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey.
While Istanbul may not be synonymous with Biryani, these restaurants offer a rich tapestry of flavors that showcase the city’s diverse culinary heritage. Enjoy the unique blend of Turkish cuisine during your culinary exploration in Istanbul.
Iranian Biryani Cooking Details:
While Biryani may not be a traditional Iranian dish, you can create a Persian-inspired version that embraces the rich flavors of Iranian cuisine. Here’s a recipe for an Iranian-style Biryani:
Iranian-Inspired Biryani: Note: This recipe incorporates Iranian spices and ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 500g lamb or chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 cups Basmati rice
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh coriander
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Advieh (Iranian spice blend) or a mix of cinnamon, cardamom, and cumin
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Saffron threads soaked in warm water
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Procedure:
- Marinate the meat in yogurt, vegetable oil, tomato paste, minced garlic, Advieh, salt, and pepper. Allow it to marinate for at least 2 hours.
- Rinse Basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice for 30 minutes.
- In a deep pan, sauté chopped onions until golden brown. Add the marinated meat and cook until browned.
- Layer the partially cooked rice over the meat. Pour saffron-infused water and broth over the rice.
- Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid or aluminum foil. Cook on low heat until the rice is fully cooked, and the meat is tender.
- Garnish with chopped coriander and mint before serving.
Best Restaurants for Biryani in Iran:
While Biryani may not be a traditional Iranian dish, the culinary scene in Iran offers a variety of delightful options. Explore these notable restaurants for an authentic taste of Iranian cuisine:
- Shahrzad Restaurant:
- Located in Tehran, Shahrzad Restaurant is known for its traditional Persian dishes, providing a cozy and authentic dining experience.
- Location: No. 15, Northern Kheradmand St., Karimkhan Zand Ave., Tehran, Iran.
- Haft Khan Restaurant:
- Situated in Isfahan, Haft Khan Restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring Iranian specialties in a welcoming atmosphere.
- Location: Next to Siosepol Bridge, Chahar Bagh Abbasi St., Isfahan, Iran.
- Biryani Iranian Restaurant:
- While not specifically focused on Biryani, this restaurant in Tehran offers a fusion of Iranian and international flavors.
- Location: No. 43, Nejatollahi St., Vali Asr Ave., Tehran, Iran.
- Divan Restaurant:
- Known for its upscale ambiance and diverse menu, Divan Restaurant in Shiraz provides an elegant setting for enjoying Persian cuisine.
- Location: Chamran Blvd, Shiraz, Iran.
While Biryani may not be a staple in Iranian cuisine, these restaurants showcase the rich and diverse flavors of Persian dishes. Explore the unique tastes of Iran during your culinary journey through these renowned establishments.
Kabsa Cooking Details:
Kabsa is a traditional Saudi Arabian dish known for its flavorful rice and meat preparation. Here’s a basic recipe for making Kabsa at home:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Basmati rice
- 500g lamb or chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 tomatoes, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1 teaspoon ground black lime (loomi)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Chopped fresh coriander or parsley for garnish
Procedure:
- Rinse the Basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice for 30 minutes.
- In a large pot, heat vegetable oil and sauté chopped onions until golden brown.
- Add minced garlic and diced tomatoes to the onions. Cook until the tomatoes are soft.
- Add the meat pieces and brown them on all sides.
- Stir in tomato paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, ground cardamom, ground black lime, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes until fragrant.
- Add sliced carrots and chopped bell pepper to the pot.
- Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot, stirring to coat the rice with the spices.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is cooked and the meat is tender.
- Garnish with chopped fresh coriander or parsley before serving.
Best Restaurants for Kabsa in Saudi Arabia:
Saudi Arabia offers a variety of dining options where you can savor authentic Kabsa. Explore these restaurants for a delightful Kabsa experience:
- Najd Village Restaurant:
- Located in Riyadh, Najd Village Restaurant provides a traditional Saudi Arabian dining atmosphere, serving a variety of local dishes, including Kabsa.
- Location: Al Urubah Road, Al Yasmin, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- Al Orjouan Restaurant:
- Situated in Jeddah, Al Orjouan Restaurant is known for its Saudi Arabian cuisine, with a menu featuring Kabsa among other traditional dishes.
- Location: Al Nahda St., Al Shati, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
- Al-Mashreq Boutique Hotel – Kabsa House:
- Located in Al Khobar, this restaurant within the Al-Mashreq Boutique Hotel specializes in Kabsa, offering a cozy setting for a Kabsa feast.
- Location: Prince Musa Bin Nasser St., Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia.
- Al-Sultan Grill:
- With branches in various cities, Al-Sultan Grill is a popular spot for traditional Saudi cuisine, and their Kabsa is highly recommended.
- Locations: Multiple branches in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Khobar.
Indulge in the rich flavors of Kabsa at these restaurants, where you can experience the authentic taste of Saudi Arabian cuisine.
Mandi Cooking Details:
Mandi is a traditional Yemeni dish known for its aromatic rice and tender meat. Here’s a basic recipe for making Mandi at home:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Basmati rice
- 500g lamb or chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 tomatoes, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1 teaspoon ground black lime (loomi)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Chopped fresh coriander or parsley for garnish
Procedure:
- Rinse the Basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice for 30 minutes.
- In a large pot, heat vegetable oil and sauté chopped onions until golden brown.
- Add minced garlic and diced tomatoes to the onions. Cook until the tomatoes are soft.
- Add the meat pieces and brown them on all sides.
- Stir in tomato paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, ground cardamom, ground black lime, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes until fragrant.
- Add sliced carrots to the pot.
- Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot, stirring to coat the rice with the spices.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is cooked and the meat is tender.
- Garnish with chopped fresh coriander or parsley before serving.
Best Restaurants for Mandi in Yemen:
Mandi is a staple in Yemeni cuisine, and several restaurants across the country offer this flavorful dish. Here are some recommended places to enjoy authentic Mandi:
- Mamdouh Restaurant:
- Located in Sanaa, Mamdouh Restaurant is renowned for its traditional Yemeni dishes, including Mandi. The restaurant provides a cozy atmosphere and authentic flavors.
- Location: Al-Zubairi Street, Sanaa, Yemen.
- Haddah Restaurant:
- Situated in Aden, Haddah Restaurant is known for its Yemeni cuisine, and their Mandi is highly praised for its taste and preparation.
- Location: Khormaksar, Aden, Yemen.
- Al-Ferdous Mandi Restaurant:
- Located in Taiz, Al-Ferdous Mandi Restaurant specializes in Mandi, offering a delightful dining experience with Yemeni hospitality.
- Location: Al-Saylah, Taiz, Yemen.
- Al Ameer Mandi Restaurant:
- With branches in various cities, Al Ameer Mandi Restaurant is recognized for its authentic Yemeni Mandi. The restaurant aims to provide a genuine taste of Yemeni culinary traditions.
- Locations: Multiple branches in major cities.
When in Yemen, explore these restaurants to savor the rich and aromatic flavors of Mandi, a dish deeply rooted in Yemeni culture and culinary heritage.
Nasi Biryani Cooking Details:
Nasi Biryani is a flavorful and aromatic Malaysian rice dish often associated with festive occasions. Here’s a simple recipe for making Nasi Biryani at home:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Basmati rice
- 500g chicken or mutton, cut into pieces
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons Biryani masala powder
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 4-5 cloves
- 4-5 green cardamom pods
- 2-3 cinnamon sticks
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander and mint leaves for garnish
Procedure:
- Rinse the Basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice for 30 minutes.
- In a large pot, heat ghee or vegetable oil. Add cumin seeds, cloves, cardamom pods, and cinnamon sticks. Sauté until aromatic.
- Add sliced onions and cook until golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
- Add Biryani masala powder, turmeric powder, and chili powder. Stir well.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.
- Add chicken or mutton pieces to the pot. Cook until the meat is browned.
- Stir in plain yogurt and cook for a few minutes until the oil separates.
- Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot. Mix well to coat the rice with the flavorful mixture.
- Add water (about 3.5 cups for 2 cups of rice) and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer until the rice is cooked and the meat is tender.
- Garnish with fresh coriander and mint leaves before serving.
Best Restaurants for Nasi Biryani in Malaysia:
Malaysia is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, and Nasi Biryani is a popular dish available in various eateries. Here are some recommended places to enjoy delicious Nasi Biryani in Malaysia:
- Restoran ZK Biryani House:
- Located in Kuala Lumpur, ZK Biryani House is known for its flavorful Nasi Biryani. The restaurant offers a variety of biryani options, including chicken and mutton.
- Location: Jalan Bunus 6, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
- Bijan Bar & Restaurant:
- Situated in Kuala Lumpur, Bijan is a well-established restaurant that serves authentic Malay cuisine, including a delightful Nasi Biryani.
- Location: No. 3, Jalan Ceylon, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
- Restoran Jai Hind Biryani:
- Located in Penang, Jai Hind Biryani is celebrated for its aromatic and flavorful Nasi Biryani. The restaurant provides a cozy atmosphere for a satisfying meal.
- Location: Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, George Town, Penang, Malaysia.
- Nasi Kandar Line Clear:
- Based in Penang, Nasi Kandar Line Clear is famous for its diverse menu, and their Nasi Biryani is a must-try for biryani enthusiasts.
- Location: Penang Road, George Town, Penang, Malaysia.
Explore these restaurants to experience the rich flavors of Nasi Biryani in Malaysia, where the dish is prepared with a unique blend of spices and culinary expertise, reflecting the country’s cultural diversity.
Thalassery Biryani Cooking Details:
Thalassery Biryani is a famous biryani variant from the Malabar region in Kerala, India. Known for its distinctive flavor and fragrant rice, here’s a recipe to make Thalassery Biryani at home:
Ingredients:
For Marination:
- 500g chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
For Rice:
- 2 cups Basmati rice
- Water for soaking
- Salt to taste
For Biryani Masala:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup ghee or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons Biryani masala powder
- 1 tablespoon coriander powder
- 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
- 1 tablespoon cashews
- 1 tablespoon raisins
- 4-5 green chilies, chopped
- 1/4 cup mint leaves
- 1/4 cup coriander leaves
For Garnish:
- Fried onions
- Cashews and raisins
Procedure:
Marinating Chicken:
- In a bowl, mix chicken pieces with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt.
- Marinate for at least 1-2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Cooking Rice:
- Rinse Basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice for 30 minutes.
- Boil water in a large pot, add salt, and cook the rice until it’s 70-80% cooked.
- Drain the water and set aside.
Preparing Biryani Masala:
- Heat ghee or vegetable oil in a pan. Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add cashews, raisins, and fennel seeds. Sauté until cashews are golden.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.
- Add Biryani masala powder, coriander powder, green chilies, mint leaves, and coriander leaves. Cook for a few minutes.
- Add marinated chicken and cook until it’s half-cooked.
Layering and Dum Cooking:
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, layer half-cooked rice over the chicken masala.
- Sprinkle fried onions, cashews, and raisins.
- Repeat the layering process until all the rice and chicken masala are used.
- Cover the pan with a tight lid or aluminum foil.
- Cook on low heat (dum) for about 20-25 minutes until the rice and chicken are fully cooked and infused with flavors.
Garnishing:
- Gently mix the layers before serving.
- Garnish with fried onions, cashews, and raisins.
Best Restaurant for Thalassery Biryani:
Paris Presidency, Thalassery:
- Located in Thalassery, Kerala, Paris Presidency is known for its authentic Thalassery Biryani. The restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
- Location: Logans Road, Thalassery, Kerala, India.
Experience the rich and aromatic flavors of Thalassery Biryani at Paris Presidency, where the culinary expertise reflects the unique culinary traditions of the Malabar region.
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