Kolkata Biryani

Kolkata Biryani is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish that combines tender marinated meat with aromatic basmati rice, cooked to perfection with warm spices. This iconic dish is a delicious representation of Bengali cuisine, showcasing layers of rich flavors and textures.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 150 grams
• Chicken (bone-in, skinless) - 300 grams
• Yogurt - 100 grams
• Onion (thinly sliced) - 1 medium
• Ginger-garlic paste - 1 tablespoon
• Potato (peeled and halved) - 1 medium
• Green chilies (slit) - 2
• Cilantro (chopped) - 2 tablespoons
• Mint leaves (chopped) - 2 tablespoons
• Biryani masala - 1 tablespoon
• Garam masala - ½ teaspoon
• Cinnamon stick - 1-inch piece
• Cloves - 3
• Cardamom pods - 2
• Bay leaf - 1
• Cooking oil - 3 tablespoons
• Salt - to taste
• Water - 400 ml
• Saffron strands - a pinch (optional)
• Kewra water - 1 teaspoon (optional)

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 30 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, marinate the chicken with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, biryani masala, garam masala, and salt. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
3. Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and fry until golden brown. Remove half for garnishing later.
4. In the same pot, add the marinated chicken and cook until it is browned and cooked through, about 10-15 minutes. Add the potatoes, green chilies, cilantro, and mint leaves, mixing well.
5. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot, followed by 400 ml of water. If using, add saffron strands dissolved in a tablespoon of warm water and kewra water for aroma. Stir gently.
6. Add the whole spices (cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, bay leaf) and adjust salt to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and water is absorbed.
7. Once done, fluff the biryani gently with a fork. Serve hot, garnished with the reserved fried onions.

Nutrition

• Calories: 600
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 90 mg
• Total Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Water: 0.4 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein from chicken, supporting muscle health.
• Contains spices like ginger and garlic, which may boost the immune system.

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