Mutton Biryani is a beloved and indulgent dish that combines tender pieces of mutton with fragrant spices and aromatic basmati rice. This delightful Indian delicacy is a favorite among meat lovers and is known for its rich flavors and mouthwatering aroma. In this article, we will guide you through a step-by-step recipe to prepare a delicious mutton biryani that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
Ingredients:
- – 500 grams mutton, cut into pieces
- – 2 cups basmati rice
- – 3 onions, thinly sliced
- – 2 tomatoes, chopped
- – 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- – 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- – 2 green chilies, slit
- – 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- – 2 teaspoons red chili powder
- – 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
- – 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- – 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
- – 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
- – 1/2 cup chopped fresh coriander leaves
- – 4 cups water
- – 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
- – Salt to taste
- – Saffron strands (optional) soaked in 2 tablespoons warm milk
Instructions:
- 1.Wash the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for about 30 minutes. Drain the water and set the rice aside.
- 2.In a mixing bowl, combine the mutton pieces with the ingredients for the marinade. Mix well to coat the mutton evenly. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator for better flavor.
- 3.Heat ghee or oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan or pressure cooker. Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. Remove half of the onions and set them aside for garnishing.
- 4.To the remaining onions in the pan, add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté for a few minutes until the raw smell disappears.
- 5.Add the marinated mutton to the pan and cook on medium heat until the meat is browned and the spices are well blended.
- 6.Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes are soft and mushy.
- 7.Add the chopped mint leaves, coriander leaves, and yogurt. Stir well to combine.
- 8.Add water to the pan and bring it to a boil. If using a pressure cooker, cover the lid and pressure cook for about 4-5 whistles or until the mutton is tender. If using a regular pan, cover with a lid and simmer on low heat until the mutton is cooked and tender (approximately 1-2 hours).
- 9.While the mutton is cooking, bring a large pot of water to boil. Add salt and the soaked basmati rice. Cook the rice until it is 70-80% cooked (still slightly firm in the center). Drain the rice and set it aside.
- 10.Once the mutton is cooked, layer the partially cooked rice on top of the mutton in the pan or pressure cooker. Spread it evenly.
- 11.If using saffron, drizzle the saffron-infused milk over the rice. This will give a beautiful color and aroma to the biryani.
- 12.Cover the pan or pressure cooker with a tight-fitting lid. If using a regular pan, seal the edges with dough to trap the steam.
- 13.Cook on low heat for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the rice to cook completely.
- 14.Remove from heat and let the biryani rest for 10 minutes.
- 15.Garnish with the reserved fried onions and serve hot with raita or salan (gravy) of your choice.
Conclusion:
Mutton Biryani is a culinary masterpiece that combines succulent mutton with aromatic spices and fragrant rice. This delightful dish is sure to impress your family and friends, making any occasion or gathering truly special. Follow this recipe to create a mouthwatering mutton biryani that will transport you to the vibrant streets of India, where the aroma of spices fills the air. Enjoy the flavors, textures, and the indulgent experience that a plate of mutton biryani offers.