B – ‘Byrani/biryani’

The abc of Food Cooking and People

Byrani/biryani

🍛 Biryani – A Fragrant Feast from South Asia

I love Indian food, being English, it is our adopted national food. As for Biryani—a layered rice and meat dish that’s beloved across India, Pakistan, and beyond. Rich with spices, tender meats, and bursts of flavour from raisins, nuts, and vegetables, biryani isn’t just food—it’s a celebration on a plate.

Whether made with lamb, chicken, seafood, or vegetables, biryani is considered a royal dish, often reserved for special occasions, weddings, and grand gatherings. The word sparks memories of family feasts, festive tables, and that unforgettable aroma wafting from the kitchen.

🌿 A Dish of Many Layers

Biryani is made by layering marinated meat, long-grain basmati rice, fried onions, and a complex mix of spices—such as cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, cumin, and saffron. The pot is then sealed and gently cooked, allowing the flavours to mingle and the rice to soak in every aromatic note.

Some versions include golden raisins, toasted nuts, and vegetables like peas or potatoes, depending on the region and household. The result? A one-pot wonder that’s deeply savoury, subtly sweet, and full of texture.

🇮🇳 Did You Know?

Biryani has Mughal origins and was once prepared for royalty.

The word comes from the Persian birian, meaning “to fry” or “to roast”.

There are many regional styles: Hyderabadi, Lucknowi (Awadhi), Sindhi, Kolkata, and more.

In Pakistan, biryani is often spicier and richly coloured, while Indian versions can range from subtly spiced to fiery.

It’s traditionally cooked using the dum method, where the pot is sealed with dough to trap steam and flavour.

🍗 Fit for a Feast

No two biryanis are ever quite the same—and that’s part of the magic. Families and cooks bring their twist to the dish, often passing recipes down through generations. It’s commonly served with raita (a cooling yoghurt sauce), pickles, or hard-boiled eggs on the side.

Whether served at a celebration or as a weekend indulgence, biryani brings people together. It’s food that fills the belly—and the heart.

✨ In Summary

You have go to try and be seduced by the rich and fragrant world of Biryani. From its spiced basmati rice to tender, marinated meat, every bite tells a story of heritage, hospitality, and celebration. Please try making or tasting it one day—you’ll see why this dish is treasured across South Asia and worldwide.