Recipe Description
Beef Biryani by Rida Aftab is a culinary masterpiece that combines tender beef, fragrant basmati rice, and a blend of aromatic spices. This traditional dish is a must-have for festive occasions, family gatherings, or a special weekend treat. Known for its rich taste and inviting aroma, this recipe by Rida Aftab is a true delight.
Serving Details
- Servings: 6-8 people
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 40 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 65 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
Ingredients
- 1 kg beef (cut into medium cubes)
- 3 cups basmati rice (washed and soaked for 30 minutes)
- 2 large onions (sliced)
- 2 large tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 cup yogurt
- 3 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 3-4 green chilies (slit)
- 1/2 cup cooking oil or ghee
- 2 tbsp biryani masala
- 1 tbsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp garam masala powder
- 1/2 cup fried onions
- 5-6 saffron strands (soaked in 3 tbsp warm milk)
- 3-4 bay leaves
- 4-5 cardamom pods
- 4-5 cloves
- 2-inch cinnamon stick
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander and mint leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a large pot, heat oil or ghee and sauté sliced onions until golden brown. Add ginger-garlic paste and fry for a minute. Add beef cubes and cook until the color changes. Add biryani masala, red chili powder, turmeric, cumin powder, and salt. Stir well. Add yogurt and chopped tomatoes. Cover and cook until the beef is tender, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice
Boil water in a separate pot with bay leaves, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and a little salt. Add soaked rice and cook until 70% done. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Layer the Biryani
In a large pot, layer half of the beef mixture at the bottom. Add a layer of rice on top. Sprinkle fried onions, saffron milk, green chilies, and fresh coriander and mint leaves. Repeat the layering process, finishing with a rice layer.
Step 4: Steam the Biryani (Dum)
Cover the pot tightly with a lid or foil. Cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse and the rice to cook completely.
Step 5: Serve
Gently mix the layers before serving to combine the flavors evenly. Serve hot with raita or a side salad.
FAQs
What makes Rida Aftab’s Beef Biryani special?
Rida Aftab’s recipe uses a perfect balance of spices and cooking techniques that ensure tender beef and flavorful rice in every bite.
Can I substitute beef with chicken or mutton?
Yes, you can use chicken or mutton, but adjust the cooking time as chicken cooks faster while mutton may take longer.
Can I make Beef Biryani without saffron?
Yes, you can skip saffron, but you may use yellow food coloring as an alternative for the traditional biryani color.
How do I prevent rice from overcooking?
Ensure the rice is only 70% cooked before layering. It will finish cooking during the steaming process (dum).
What sides pair best with Beef Biryani?
Raita, pickles, and a fresh cucumber salad complement Beef Biryani perfectly.
How can I store leftover biryani?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
