Simple Masala Biryani

Masala Biryani is a very simple biryani made with fresh ground masala powder, coconut milk and cilantro. 

You can serve the Biryani with any gravy or raita. This is ideal for lunch boxes as well.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes 

Cook Time: 25 minutes 

Serves: 4-5

Ingredients:

Basmati Rice: 2 cups

Ghee : 3 tablespoons 

Onion : 1 large sliced

Ginger garlic paste: 1 tablespoon 

Cilantro/Coriander leaves: Small bunch chopped 

Coconut milk: 1 cup 

Water : 1 3/4 cups

Fresh ground biryani masala: 1/2 cup

Salt to taste 

For Biryani Masala: (Makes 1/2 cup)

Cinnamon: 2" stick

Fennel Seeds/Saunf : 2 teaspoons 

Cumin Seeds/ Jeera : 1 teaspoon 

Green cardamom/Elachi: 5

Cloves/Laung : 5

Bay leaves: 2

Mace : 2

Stone flower: 3

Star Anise : 1

Black pepper: 1 teaspoon 

Coriander seeds: 3 tablespoons 

Red chili powder: 1 tablespoon

Method:

Wash and soak rice for 30 minutes.

Dry roast all ingredients except red chili powder, let them cool and grind into a smooth powder. Add chili powder and grind one more time. 

Heat ghee in a vessel and add onions and sauté till they turn light brown. Add ginger garlic paste and fry for 30 seconds. 

Add the masala and fry for 30 seconds. Add cilantro, coconut milk, water, salt and bring it to a boil. Add drained rice and bring it to a boil again.

Close lid and simmer the stove for 15 minutes until the rice is done. Wait for 10 minutes and fluff it with a fork.

Serve hot with gravy or raita.