Mediterranean Diet Traditional Mutton Biryani

Experience the perfect fusion of wholesome ingredients and classic flavors with this Mediterranean Diet Traditional Mutton Biryani. Combining the aromatic spices of traditional biryani with heart-healthy substitutions like olive oil and nutrient-rich brown basmati rice, this dish offers a lighter yet deeply satisfying take on a beloved classic. Tender, slow-cooked mutton is layered with fragrant spices, caramelized onions, and partially cooked rice, then steamed to perfection for an irresistible depth of flavor. Enhanced by creamy Greek yogurt, fresh mint, and cilantro, this mutton biryani delivers a balanced combination of richness and freshness in every bite. Perfect for dinner parties or indulgent family meals, this recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a delicious, nutritious twist on a traditional favorite.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:90 mins

Total Time:120 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams Mutton (bone-in)
• 300 grams Brown Basmati Rice
• 4 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 150 grams Greek Yogurt
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon Ginger (grated)
• 2 medium Onions (thinly sliced)
• 2 medium Tomatoes (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons Cilantro (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons Mint Leaves (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
• 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
• 1 teaspoon Coriander Powder
• 1 teaspoon Garam Masala
• 0.5 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
• 4 Cardamom Pods (cracked)
• 1 Cinnamon Stick
• 4 Cloves
• 2 Bay Leaves
• 2 teaspoons Salt
• 4 cups Water (for boiling rice)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the brown basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 30 minutes.

Step 2

In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, cloves, and bay leaves, and sauté until fragrant.

Step 3

Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. Reserve half of the fried onions for garnish.

Step 4

Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, turmeric powder, coriander powder, smoked paprika, and garam masala. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices are aromatic.

Step 5

Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and oil begins to separate (about 5 minutes).

Step 6

Add the mutton pieces and brown them on all sides. Then, add Greek yogurt, chopped cilantro, and chopped mint leaves. Stir well and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes.

Step 7

Add 1 cup of water, cover the pot, and cook the mutton on low heat for 40-50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is tender and the sauce thickens.

Step 8

Meanwhile, boil 4 cups of water in another pot, add 1 teaspoon of salt, and parboil the soaked rice for 8-10 minutes until 70% cooked. Drain the excess water and set the rice aside.

Step 9

In the same pot with the mutton, layer the partially cooked rice evenly over the meat mixture. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the rice and sprinkle the reserved fried onions on top.

Step 10

Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid or seal it with aluminum foil. Reduce the heat to the lowest setting and let the biryani cook on "dum" (steam) for 20 minutes.

Step 11

Remove the pot from heat and let the biryani rest, covered, for another 10 minutes. Gently fluff the layers with a fork before serving.

Step 12

Serve warm, garnished with additional cilantro and mint leaves if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2480.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2430.3

Total Fat 163.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 50.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.3g
Cholesterol 355mg	0%
Sodium 5223.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 129.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 21.9g	0%
Total Sugars 21.1g
Protein 118.9g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 464.4mg	0%
Iron 21.6mg	0%
Potassium 3046.2mg	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: 59.7%

Protein: 19.3%

Carbs: 21.0%