Mutton Biryani

Ingredients:

• 500g mutton, cut into pieces
• 2 cups basmati rice
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1/4 cup cooking oil or ghee
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
• 4-5 cloves
• 2-3 green cardamom pods
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 tsp saffron threads (optional)
• 2 tbsp milk (for saffron, if using)
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• Fresh mint leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Mutton: In a large bowl, mix the mutton pieces with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
2. Prepare the Rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until it runs clear. Soak the rice for 30 minutes, then drain. In a large pot, bring water to a boil, add salt, and cook the rice until it's 70% done. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook the Mutton: Heat oil or ghee in a large pan. Add cumin seeds, cloves, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf. Sauté for a minute until fragrant. Add the sliced onions and cook until golden brown.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until soft. Add the marinated mutton and cook on medium heat until the mutton is tender and the oil starts to separate from the masala (about 30-40 minutes).
5. Layer the Biryani: In a large pot or Dutch oven, layer half of the partially cooked rice over the mutton. Sprinkle some chopped mint and coriander leaves over the rice. Add the remaining rice on top, and if using saffron, dissolve it in warm milk and drizzle over the top layer of rice.
6. Cook the Biryani: Cover the pot tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. Cook on low heat for 25-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the rice to finish cooking. This process is known as 'dum'.
7. Serve: Gently fluff the biryani with a fork and serve hot, garnished with additional mint and coriander leaves. Enjoy with raita or your favorite side dishes!

Notes:

For added flavor, consider adding fried onions and boiled eggs as optional toppings. Adjust the spice levels to your preference.

About This Dish:

Mutton Biryani is a flavorful and aromatic rice dish made with tender mutton and a blend of spices. It's a staple in South Asian cuisine, often enjoyed at special occasions and gatherings for its rich taste and delightful aroma.

Nutritional Information:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	500 kcal
Fat	25g
Carbohydrates	55g
Protein	30g

User Reviews:

Ravi Sharma: "The Mutton Biryani was perfect! The spices were well-balanced and the mutton was tender. My family loved it."

Anita Desai: "This recipe brings out the authentic flavors of biryani. It's a great dish for special occasions and really satisfies."