Bombay Biryani Recipe

Bombay Biryani is a delicious and aromatic rice dish that beautifully blends spices, herbs, and tender meat or vegetables. Known for its bold flavours, this recipe uses a Biryani spice mix to simplify the cooking process while still delivering the signature taste of biryani. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, Bombay Biryani is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone craving more.

  Prep Time: 30 minutes  Cook Time: 50 minutes  Serving Size: 4  Difficulty: Moderate

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Basmati rice
• 500g chicken or lamb (cut into pieces)
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 2 tbsp Biryani spice mix
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1/4 cup fresh coriander, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 2 tbsp ghee or vegetable oil
• 4 cups water
• Salt to taste
• Fried onions and lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions:

• Prepare the rice:
  Rinse the Basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 20-30 minutes, then drain and set aside.

• Cook the chicken or lamb:
  Heat ghee or oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until golden brown. Add the ginger-garlic paste, green chilies, and chopped tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes soften. Then add the Biryani spice mix, turmeric, and salt. Stir well. Add the chicken or lamb pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes until the meat is browned on all sides.

• Add yogurt and herbs:
  Stir in the yogurt, chopped coriander, and mint. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld together.

• Cook the rice:
  In a separate pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the soaked and drained rice, and cook for about 7-8 minutes until the rice is 70% cooked. Drain the rice.

• Layer the Biryani:
  In the pot with the meat, spread the partially cooked rice evenly over the top. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes to allow the rice to steam and absorb the flavours.

• Serve:
  Once the Biryani is fully cooked, fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with fried onions and lemon wedges.

Serve and enjoy!