The ultimate kolkata-style chicken biryani recipe: a culinary masterpiece revealed

Embark on a culinary adventure with this authentic Chicken Biryani recipe, a beloved delicacy hailing from the vibrant streets of Kolkata. This aromatic dish tantalizes taste buds with its complex flavors, fragrant spices, and tender chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 kg boneless, skinless chicken, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 2 tablespoons yogurt
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Rice:

• 500 g basmati rice, soaked in water for 30 minutes
• 2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Dum:

• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 1 teaspoon saffron strands, soaked in 2 tablespoons of warm milk
• 1/4 cup chopped coriander leaves
• 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

• In a large bowl, combine the chicken, ginger-garlic paste, yogurt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt.
• Mix well and marinate for at least 3 hours, or overnight.

2. Prepare the Rice

• Drain the soaked rice and rinse thoroughly.
• In a heavy-bottomed pot, bring the water and salt to a boil.
• Add the rice and cook until the grains are tender but still slightly firm, about 10-12 minutes.
• Drain the rice and set aside.

3. Cook the Chicken

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok.
• Brown the marinated chicken in batches, ensuring it is cooked through.
• Set the cooked chicken aside.

4. Assemble the Biryani

• In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked rice.
• Top with the cooked chicken.
• Spread the remaining rice over the chicken.

5. Prepare the Dum

• In a small skillet, heat a little oil and sauté the sliced onion until golden brown.
• Add the green chilies and sauté for a minute.
• Pour the saffron-milk mixture over the onion-chili mixture and stir well.

6. Bake the Biryani

• Scatter the onion-chili mixture over the rice.
• Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
• Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 30-35 minutes, or until the biryani is heated through.

7. Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle the chopped coriander and mint leaves over the biryani.
• Serve hot with raita, onions, and lemon wedges.

Tips

• Use high-quality basmati rice for the best flavor and texture.
• Marinate the chicken for a longer duration to enhance the flavors.
• Do not overcook the rice, as it will become mushy.
• Allow the biryani to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.

Variations

• Add vegetables such as diced carrots, potatoes, or peas to the biryani.
• Use different spices to adjust the heat level, such as cumin, coriander, or cloves.
• Layer the biryani with a thin layer of potatoes or hard-boiled eggs for added texture.

Nutritional Value

One serving of Chicken Biryani (approximately 300 grams) provides:

• Calories: 450-500
• Protein: 25-30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams
• Fat: 15-20 grams

Final Thoughts

Indulge in the rich culinary heritage of Kolkata with this mouthwatering Chicken Biryani recipe. Its aromatic spices, tender chicken, and fluffy rice will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Experiment with variations to suit your preferences and create a dish that will be a staple in your home cooking repertoire.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of rice besides basmati?

Yes, you can use other long-grain rice varieties such as jasmine rice or brown rice. However, basmati rice is preferred for its fragrant aroma and non-sticky texture.

2. How can I make the biryani less spicy?

Reduce the amount of red chili powder in the marinade and dum. You can also add a dollop of yogurt or cream to balance the heat.

3. Can I cook the biryani on the stovetop?

Yes, you can cook the biryani on the stovetop. After assembling the biryani in the baking dish, cover it tightly with a lid and cook over low heat for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through.

4. How can I make the biryani more flavorful?

Use a variety of spices in the marinade and dum to create a complex flavor profile. Experiment with spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

5. Can I freeze the biryani?

Yes, you can freeze the biryani for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing. When ready to serve, thaw the biryani overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.