Low Sodium Traditional Mutton Biryani

Savor the rich, aromatic flavors of this **Low Sodium Traditional Mutton Biryani**, a heart-healthy twist on the much-loved classic. Tender, slow-cooked mutton is layered with fluffy, partially cooked basmati rice and infused with fragrant spices like cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom for an authentic biryani experience, all while keeping the sodium content in check. Fresh herbs like mint and cilantro, along with rich yogurt, bring freshness and depth to the dish, while a splash of low sodium broth enhances its wholesome appeal. Perfectly spiced and beautifully balanced, this biryani is finished with a final steam process (dum) to lock in all the bold flavors. Whether you bake it in the oven or simmer it on the stovetop, this satisfying dish is ideal for a special family dinner. Pair it with cooling cucumber raita for a well-rounded, guilt-free feast.

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:90 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 g Mutton (bone-in, cut into medium pieces)
• 300 g Basmati rice
• 125 g Plain unsweetened yogurt
• 2 large Onions (thinly sliced)
• 2 medium Tomatoes (chopped)
• 1 tbsp Fresh ginger (grated)
• 1 tbsp Garlic (minced)
• 3 medium Green chilies (slit lengthwise)
• 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro (chopped)
• 2 tbsp Mint leaves (chopped)
• 750 ml Low sodium chicken or mutton broth
• 1 piece Cinnamon stick
• 4 pieces Green cardamom pods
• 4 pieces Cloves
• 2 pieces Bay leaves
• 1 tsp Cumin seeds
• 0.5 tsp Turmeric powder
• 1 tsp Coriander powder
• 1 tsp Garam masala powder
• 0.5 tsp Low sodium salt substitute (optional)
• 3 tbsp Cooking oil
• 1 tbsp Ghee (clarified butter, optional for aroma)

Directions

Step 1

Wash the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak for 30 minutes, then drain.

Step 2

In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add the whole spices (cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, bay leaves, and cumin seeds) and sauté until aromatic, about 1 minute.

Step 3

Add the sliced onions and cook until golden brown, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.

Step 4

Add the ginger, garlic, and green chilies. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the raw aroma disappears.

Step 5

Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, and coriander powder. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the mixture forms a thick paste.

Step 6

Stir in the yogurt, chopped mint, and cilantro. Mix well.

Step 7

Add the mutton pieces and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is lightly browned.

Step 8

Pour the low sodium broth into the pot and bring it to a simmer. Cover and cook on low heat for about 30-35 minutes, until the mutton is tender. Stir occasionally and add a little water if needed to prevent sticking.

Step 9

In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Add the soaked and drained basmati rice and cook until the rice is about 70% done (still firm). Drain and set aside.

Step 10

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) if layering in the oven, or prepare to layer the biryani in the same pot if using the stovetop method.

Step 11

Layer half of the partially cooked rice over the mutton in the pot. Sprinkle half of the garam masala on top. Add the remaining rice and sprinkle the rest of the garam masala.

Step 12

Drizzle ghee (if using) over the top for added aroma. Cover the pot tightly with a lid, sealing the edges with dough if needed, or use aluminum foil to trap the steam.

Step 13

Cook on very low heat for 15-20 minutes (or bake in the preheated oven for the same duration) until the rice is fully cooked and the flavors have melded.

Step 14

Turn off the heat and let the biryani rest for 10 minutes before serving. Gently fluff the rice with a fork to mix the layers but maintain the integrity of the grains.

Step 15

Serve hot with a side of yogurt or cucumber raita.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2379.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2491.9

Total Fat 165.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 57.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 424.3mg	0%
Sodium 713.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 145.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 18.5g	0%
Total Sugars 28.3g
Protein 117.2g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 515.3mg	0%
Iron 23.2mg	0%
Potassium 4113.3mg	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: 58.6%

Protein: 18.5%

Carbs: 22.9%