As a nation, we Indians take our biryani very seriously. From the fragrant Basmati rice to the tender pieces of meat, the aromatic spices, and the lip-smacking masala, biryani is one dish that unites us all. In Search of the Best Biryani? With every region having its own unique take on the dish, we decided to embark on a culinary journey across India to find the best biryanis in the country. Here’s what we discovered:
Lucknowi Biryani
Our journey began in Lucknow, the land of nawabs and kebabs. The Lucknowi biryani is a blend of fragrant Basmati rice, tender chunks of meat, and a melange of spices. The key to a good Lucknowi biryani is the way you cook. The rice and meat are cooked separately and then layered together in a pot. Then seal it with dough and slow-cooked on low heat to allow the flavours to meld together. The result is a rich, aromatic, and flavourful biryani that will leave you wanting more.
Hyderabadi Biryani
No biryani journey across India is complete without a visit to Hyderabad, the home of the world-famous Hyderabadi biryani. The Hyderabadi biryani is cook with long-grained Basmati rice. Also the tender pieces of meat, and a blend of aromatic spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. What sets the Hyderabadi biryani apart is the addition of fried onions and saffron, which give the dish its distinct aroma and flavour. The Hyderabadi biryani is typically by serving with raita and salan, a tangy gravy made with tamarind and peanuts.
Kolkata Biryani
Moving on to the east of India, we landed in Kolkata, where we discovered the Kolkata biryani. The Kolkata biryani is a unique blend of Basmati rice, tender pieces of meat, and aromatic spices such as cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom. What sets the Kolkata biryani apart is the addition of boiled eggs and potatoes, it adds a unique texture and flavour to the dish. The Kolkata biryani is typically served with aloo dum, a tangy potato curry, and a side of cucumber raita.
Malabar Biryani
Our journey across India took us to the southern state of Kerala, where we discovered the Malabar biryani. The Malabar biryani is made with short-grained rice, tender chunks of meat, and a blend of spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. What sets the Malabar biryani apart is the addition of fried onions, cashew nuts, and raisins, which give the dish its unique flavour and texture. The Malabar biryani is typically served with a side of raita and pappadam.
Conclusion:
In Search of the Best Biryani? Our culinary journey across India led us to discover some of the best biryanis in the country. While each region has its own unique take on the dish, one thing is for sure. Biryani is a dish that is loved by all. Whether you prefer the rich and flavourful Lucknowi biryani or the aromatic. The tangy Hyderabadi biryani, there is a biryani out there for everyone. So the next time you’re in the mood for some biryani, don’t hesitate to try out one of these delicious and mouth-watering dishes!
