Dhakai Biryani
A fragrant and flavorful rice dish originating from Dhaka, Bangladesh, known for its rich spices, tender meat, and aromatic basmati rice, often prepared with beef or mutton.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Beef or Mutton(cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 500 g Basmati rice(soaked for 30 minutes)
- 3 large Onions(thinly sliced)
- 2 tbsp Ginger paste
- 2 tbsp Garlic paste
- 1 cup Yogurt(plain, whisked)
- 0.5 cup Ghee or Vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp Whole spices (cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, bay leaves)
- 3 tbsp Ground spices (coriander, cumin, turmeric, chili powder)
- to taste Salt
- 4-5 Green chilies(slit lengthwise)
- a pinch Saffron strands(soaked in warm milk)
- 1 tsp Kewra water or Rose water
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Marinate the meat with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, ground spices, and salt for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight.
- 2
Heat ghee or oil in a heavy-bottomed pot. Add whole spices and sauté until fragrant. Add sliced onions and fry until golden brown.
- 3
Add the marinated meat to the pot and cook on medium-high heat until the meat is browned and the oil separates from the masala.
- 4
Add about 2 cups of water, cover, and simmer on low heat until the meat is tender (about 1-1.5 hours, depending on the cut of meat).
- 5
While the meat is cooking, parboil the soaked basmati rice in plenty of salted water until about 70% cooked. Drain the rice thoroughly.
- 6
Once the meat is tender and the gravy has thickened, layer the parboiled rice over the meat. Add green chilies, saffron milk, and kewra/rose water.
- 7
Cover the pot tightly with a lid (seal with dough if necessary) and cook on very low heat (dum) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and fluffy.
- 8
Gently mix the biryani from the sides before serving hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using good quality basmati rice is crucial for authentic biryani.
- ✓Marinating the meat for a longer period enhances flavor.
- ✓Ensure the pot is tightly sealed during the 'dum' cooking process to trap steam.
- ✓Adjust chili powder and green chilies according to your spice preference.
🔄 Variations
- Can be made with chicken, but cooking time will be significantly reduced.
- Add fried onions (beresta) on top for extra flavor and texture.