Bombay Chicken Biryani: A Flavourful Delight

Welcome to the world of aromatic spices and mouthwatering flavors with our exquisite recipe for Bombay Chicken Biryani. This traditional Indian dish hails from the vibrant city of Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay. With its roots deeply embedded in the rich culinary heritage of India, Bombay Chicken Biryani is a sumptuous blend of tender chicken, fragrant basmati rice, and a medley of aromatic spices. This recipe captures the essence of Mumbai’s bustling streets and its diverse culinary culture, offering you a taste of authentic Indian cuisine right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

To create this delectable Bombay Chicken Biryani, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 1 lb (450g) chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 onions, finely sliced
• 4 tomatoes, chopped
• 4 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon biryani masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (coriander) leaves
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup fried onions (optional)
• 4 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) or vegetable oil
• Salt to taste
• Water for cooking

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Method of Cooking

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat the ghee or vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and sauté until they splutter.
3. Add the sliced onions to the pan and cook until they turn golden brown.
4. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
5. Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook until they are lightly browned on all sides.
6. Now, add the chopped tomatoes, green chilies, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and biryani masala. Mix well and cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes soften.
7. Lower the heat and stir in the plain yogurt, chopped cilantro leaves, and mint leaves. Season with salt according to your taste. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
8. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. Cook the soaked and drained basmati rice until it is 70% cooked. Drain the rice and set aside.
9. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
10. In a deep oven-safe dish, layer half of the partially cooked rice, followed by the chicken masala mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining rice and masala.
11. Sprinkle garam masala and fried onions over the top layer of rice. Drizzle a little ghee over the entire dish.
12. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the rice to fully cook.
13. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Gently fluff the rice with a fork to mix the layers together.
14. Serve the aromatic Bombay Chicken Biryani hot, garnished with additional fried onions and fresh cilantro leaves. It pairs perfectly with raita (yogurt sauce) or a side salad.

About

Where to Cook this Recipe?

Bombay Chicken Biryani is a popular dish enjoyed across India and around the world. It can be prepared in the comfort of your own kitchen, bringing the flavors of Mumbai straight to your dining table.

History and Origins of this Recipe

Bombay Chicken Biryani originated in the bustling city of Mumbai, India. Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is a melting pot of diverse cultures and cuisines. The city’s culinary landscape reflects its cosmopolitan nature, combining influences from various regions of India. Biryani itself is a beloved rice dish with Persian roots, introduced to India during the Mughal era. Over time, it has evolved and adapted to regional tastes, with Mumbai adding its own unique touch to this classic dish. The vibrant street food culture of Mumbai has contributed to the popularity of Bombay Chicken Biryani, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Where People Like Most this Recipe

Bombay Chicken Biryani is cherished by food lovers all around the world. However, it holds a special place in the hearts of Mumbaikars (residents of Mumbai). In the bustling streets of Mumbai, you can find numerous street vendors and restaurants offering their own take on this iconic dish. From the bustling food stalls of Mohammad Ali Road during Ramadan to the upscale restaurants in South Mumbai, Bombay Chicken Biryani is savored by people from all walks of life. Its aromatic spices, succulent chicken, and fragrant rice create an irresistible combination that has made it a beloved culinary gem in the hearts of Mumbaikars.