Ingredients

2 tablespoons warm skim milk
1/8 teaspoon saffron thread , crumbled
2 tablespoons olive oil , divided
6 whole cardamom pods , green
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon , divided
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
2 cups brown basmati rice
3 cups water
salt & pepper
2 medium onions , one chopped fine and one sliced thin
1 large tomatoes , coarsely chopped
2 tablespoons garlic , minced
2 tablespoons ginger paste
2 teaspoons garam masala
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon curry powder
1 1/2 lbs boneless chicken thighs , cut into 3/4 inch pieces
1/2 cup cilantro , coarsely chopped
1 tablespoon ghee or 1 tablespoon melted butter
Biryani is a classic dish that originated in the Indian subcontinent and is now enjoyed all over the world. This version of the dish uses brown basmati rice, which is a healthier alternative to traditional white rice as it is a whole grain that is high in fiber and nutrients. The rice is cooked with fragrant spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and bay leaves, and is mixed with tender pieces of chicken that have been marinated in flavorful spices. This biryani is a wonderful one-pot meal that is perfect for serving at gatherings or special occasions, and is sure to impress anyone who tries it.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2.In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and crumbled saffron threads and let sit.
3.In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cardamom pods, 1/4 teaspoon of the cinnamon, the bay leaf, and the black peppercorns. Cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4.Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden brown, about 10 minutes.
5.Add the chopped tomato, garlic, and ginger paste, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomato has broken down and the mixture is thick and fragrant, about 10 minutes.
6.Add the garam masala, cayenne pepper, turmeric, ground cloves, and curry powder and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
7.Increase the heat to medium-high and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chicken and salt and pepper to taste. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 10 minutes.
8.Add the brown basmati rice and stir to combine.
9.Add the water, the saffron milk mixture, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes.
10.Remove from the oven and let sit, covered, for 10-15 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and top with the cilantro and ghee or melted butter before serving.

PROS

This biryani is a wonderful and flavorful one-pot meal that is perfect for serving a crowd.

It is filled with aromatic spices and tender chicken, and the brown basmati rice adds a healthy twist to this classic dish.

CONS

This dish is quite time consuming and requires a lot of ingredients and prep work.

The long cooking time may also be a drawback for busy weeknights when a quick meal is needed.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This core chicken biryani contains numerous health benefits, including being a good source of protein and fiber.
The brown basmati rice is also a healthier alternative to traditional white rice, as it is a whole grain that is high in fiber and nutrients such as B vitamins and iron.
The spices used in this dish, such as turmeric and black pepper, have been linked to potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects as well.

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