Maella

Ingredients

Spices

Miscellaneous

Directions

  1. 1

    Soak rice for 30 minutes before cooking to make it fluffy and prevent sticking.

  2. 2

    Cook the rice 70% through in salted water with whole spices. This keeps the grains separate and firm after layering with meat or vegetables.

  3. 3

    Use crispy fried onions for the best flavor. They add a sweet, caramelized taste and a crunchy texture.

  4. 4

    Marinate the chicken or meat for at least 2 hours (overnight is best). This enhances the flavor and makes the meat tender.

  5. 5

    Layer rice and marinated meat with fried onions, mint, coriander, and a drizzle of saffron-infused milk or food color to get the signature biryani look.

  6. 6

    Seal the cooking pot with dough or a tight lid to trap steam (“dum”). Cook on low heat for about 20-25 minutes to allow all flavors to infuse.

  7. 7

    Add a splash of rose water or kewra water to the top layer for a signature biryani aroma.

  8. 8

    Use yogurt in the marination and a small amount of tomatoes for a tangy, creamy base.