By When it comes to biryani, few dishes rival the indulgent, aromatic splendor of a well-made prawn biryani. This coastal twist on the classic biryani infuses succulent prawns with rich spices, fragrant basmati rice, and the perfect balance of heat and flavor. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply looking to impress guests with a luxurious meal, prawn biryani offers the perfect centerpiece for any table.
Biryani, a dish that traces its roots to Mughlai and Persian influences, has seen many regional adaptations throughout the Indian subcontinent. Prawn biryani, often associated with coastal regions like Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, brings together the sea’s freshness with the bold flavors of traditional Indian cooking.
Below is a detailed, step-by-step recipe for preparing restaurant-style prawn biryani at home.
Ingredients:
For the prawns:
- 500 grams medium to large prawns, cleaned and deveined
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Juice of half a lemon
For the rice:
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 4 cups water
- 4 cloves
- 2 green cardamoms
- 1 bay leaf
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- Salt to taste
For the biryani masala:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1/2 cup fresh yogurt (curd)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- A handful of fresh mint leaves
- A handful of fresh coriander leaves
- 4 tablespoons cooking oil or ghee
For layering:
- A pinch of saffron soaked in 2 tablespoons warm milk
- 1 tablespoon ghee or butter
- Fried onions (optional)
- Extra mint and coriander leaves
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Prawns
Start by marinating the cleaned prawns with turmeric, red chili powder, salt, and lemon juice. Mix well and let it rest for 20–30 minutes. This helps tenderize the prawns and enhances their flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
Wash the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for 20–30 minutes. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Add cloves, cardamoms, bay leaf, cinnamon, and salt. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the boiling water. Cook until the rice is 70–80% done (the grains should still have a bite). Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Masala
In a heavy-bottomed pan or handi, heat oil or ghee. Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. This can take 10–12 minutes. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté until the raw smell disappears. Next, add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and mushy.
Add turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well. Add yogurt and cook on medium heat until the oil separates. Now, add the marinated prawns and cook them for 5–6 minutes until they are just done. Prawns cook quickly—avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
Add chopped mint and coriander leaves. Stir well and remove from heat.
Step 4: Layering the Biryani
In a heavy pot or handi, spread a layer of prawn masala at the bottom. Add a layer of partially cooked rice on top. Sprinkle some saffron milk, ghee, fried onions, and mint-coriander leaves. Repeat the layers if needed, ending with a rice layer on top.
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. You can seal it with dough to trap the steam (optional). Cook on very low heat for 15–20 minutes (this is the dum process).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the biryani rest for 10 minutes before opening the lid. Gently fluff the rice without breaking it. Serve hot with raita, papad, or a simple salad.
Tips for Best Results:
- Use fresh, good-quality prawns for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the prawns or the rice.
- The longer the marination, the more flavorful the prawns.
- For extra aroma, you can add rose water or kewra water during layering.
Conclusion
Prawn biryani is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of spices, textures, and tradition. With a bit of care and attention, you can recreate the magic of a coastal feast in your own kitchen. Whether it’s for a weekend dinner or a special gathering, this prawn biryani recipe is sure to impress.
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