Classic Biryani Rice

Transport your taste buds to the heart of Indian cuisine with this aromatic Classic Biryani Rice recipe. Featuring fragrant basmati rice infused with the rich flavors of whole spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, this dish is elevated with caramelized onions, garlic, and a touch of turmeric for its signature golden hue. Optional saffron strands add a luxurious aroma, while fresh coriander and mint provide a bright, herbaceous finish. Perfect as a standalone side dish or paired with your favorite curry or raita, this one-pot recipe is both simple and luxurious, coming together in just under an hour. Whether you're hosting a festive meal or looking to upgrade your everyday dinner, this biryani rice is sure to impress.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups Basmati rice
• 3 cups Water
• 2 tablespoons Ghee or butter
• 1 large Onion, thinly sliced
• 3 Garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Ginger, grated
• 1 Bay leaf
• 1 Cinnamon stick
• 4 Cardamom pods
• 5 Cloves
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 1.5 teaspoons Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Saffron strands (optional)
• 2 tablespoons Warm milk (for saffron)
• 2 tablespoons Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons Fresh mint leaves, chopped

Directions

Step 1

Thoroughly rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

Step 2

Soak the rinsed rice in water for 20 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

If using, soak the saffron strands in warm milk and set aside.

Step 4

In a large pot, heat ghee or butter over medium heat.

Step 5

Add the sliced onion and sauté until golden brown and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 6

Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 7

Add the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and cumin seeds. Stir for about 30 seconds to release the spices' aroma.

Step 8

Add the drained rice to the pot, stirring gently to coat each grain with the ghee and spices, cooking for about 2 minutes.

Step 9

Add water, salt, and turmeric powder to the pot, mixing well.

Step 10

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, covering the pot with a tight-fitting lid.

Step 11

Allow the rice to simmer for 18 minutes without lifting the lid or stirring.

Step 12

Turn off the heat and let the rice sit undisturbed for another 5 minutes to finish cooking with residual steam.

Step 13

If using, drizzle the saffron milk over the rice.

Step 14

Fluff the rice gently with a fork.

Step 15

Garnish with chopped fresh coriander and mint leaves before serving.

Step 16

Serve the biryani rice hot as a side dish or with your choice of curry or raita.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1382.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	913.4

Total Fat 33.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 18.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 87.7mg	0%
Sodium 3627.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 138.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 13.2g	0%
Total Sugars 9.7g
Protein 20.1g	0%

Vitamin D 15IU	0%
Calcium 349.9mg	0%
Iron 12.4mg	0%
Potassium 817.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 32.2%

Protein: 8.6%

Carbs: 59.2%