Popular Mouth Watering Biryanis You Must Try
What is the first image that pops up when you hear the word “biryani”? We bet you are visualising an aromatic and savoury plate of flavourful rice cooked with chunky meat pieces (or fresh vegetable pieces, if you are not a carnivore!). If that image also makes you drool, you won’t be the only one. Biryani food choices are universally loved by all. These one-pot rice delicacies are a fan-favourite for all people across regions, ages and tastes. Indian biryani is a staple meal for some, while a comfort meal for others. It is also a symbol of celebratory food on special occasions.
One thing about biryani that many people are unaware of is the variety and origin of its type. If you are also someone who is unaware of these variations, let us walk you through it. The country’s most popular biryani choices have multiple sources, secret ingredients, ways of cooking and even origin stories! Let us look at some of the most loved biryani types and what makes them special.
Hyderabadi Biryani
Hyderabad is perhaps the most regal place in the southern region of India. The city witnessed the reign of Mughal emperors and major political instances. It also houses the world’s most famous monuments and cultural establishments. However, the cherry on top is the finger-licking taste of Hyderabadi food. This multicultural cuisine draws inspiration from various international cultures. The richness of this blend has given birth to the miracle that is Hyderabadi biryani.
The overload of flavours and spices in this biryani dish is what makes it stand out from others. A generous use of saffron also elevates the uniqueness of the recipe. The slow marination of the meat/veggies in a spicy yoghurt premix gives a flavourful punch to your mouth. You are just a taste away from experiencing heaven on a plate in the form of Hyderabad’s dum-cooked biryani!
Lucknowi biryani
Shifting the royalty of India up to the Northern Indian region marks a stop at the land of Nawabs, Lucknow. The land of mesmerising architecture and finely intricate textile has its own take on biryani. While Lucknowi biryani shares the same aroma and flavour as its directional counterpart, the subtlety and way of cooking make it distinctly special. The rice and meat are initially cooked separately. Once thoroughly done, the two are combined and left on a slow flame in an earthen Handi. This simultaneous process allows the distinct flavours to marry and serve you a delectable treat!
Kolkata biryani
Rice is a staple in the West Bengal region due to its abundant production and consumption. The natives have taken the right advantage of this fact by making a special regional rice dish. The Kolkata biryani has gained nationwide attention due to the distinguishable addition of potatoes to the dish. Yes, you read that right! The original dish stems from the Awadhi region. The Bengalis modified the original recipe and combined meat with potatoes to make a remarkably iconic biryani dish. Another defining characteristic of this dish is the dum-pukht style of cooking. This method involves sealing the top of the cooking pot to encapsulate the right aroma and spice of the spiced rice, meat and veggies. The burst of fresh flavours and fragrance on opening the serving pot is worth the steady cooking process.
Chicken 65 biryani
You may be wondering what is so different about a chicken 65 biryani which makes it have a special mention. It is yet another variation of classic chicken biryani. The distinguishing feature is the addition of fried chicken pieces that have been cooked with biryani masala over layers of basmati rice. This mix is slow-cooked (dum-style) to give it the essence of authentic Indian biryani. It is a popular choice among those with a taste for rich and exclusive meat-based dishes.
Veg biryani
This is the most controversially debated type of biryani on the menu. Many argue that the best biryani always has meat, and anything without the chunky, juicy meat pieces is a hoax. On the other hand, herbivore eaters prioritise the correct spice usage and cooking method as the defining characteristics of the dish. Regardless of the never-ending arguments, vegetable biryani is a fan-favourite among numerous people. The rich selection of exotic veggies, dry fruits cooked with authentic spices, and rich basmati rice makes a scrumptious meal for all. It is served with notably flavoured gravy or raita to elevate the taste and textures.
Final words
Did this discussion make you drool for a tasteful bite of freshly prepared biryani? Biryani By Kilo is a one-stop solution to fix your hunger pangs. We are available pan-India to serve you the finest biryani choices. On the BBK website or on its app, you can browse our selection of biryanis. Whether you are looking for a spicy Hyderabadi Chicken biryani or a simple vegetable biryani, we have it all!
