Authentic Prawn Biryani with Fragrant Basmati Rice

Ingredients

• Water (4 cups)
• Salt (to taste)
• Ghee (2 tablespoons)
• Coriander leaves (a handful, chopped)
• Mint leaves (a handful, chopped)
• Garam masala powder (1 teaspoon)
• Biryani masala powder (2 teaspoons)
• Red chili powder (1 teaspoon)
• Turmeric powder (1/2 teaspoon)
• Yogurt (1/2 cup)
• Green chili (2, slit)
• Ginger (1 inch piece, grated)
• Tomato (2 medium, finely chopped)
• Onion (2 medium, thinly sliced)
• Prawns (500 grams, deveined and cleaned)
• Basmati rice (2 cups, washed and soaked for 30 minutes)

Instructions

1. Start by rinsing the Basmati rice under running water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
2. In a large pot, heat ghee over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté until they turn a delightful golden brown.
3. Introduce the grated ginger and slit green chilies to the pot. Sauté for a minute until they release their aromatic essence.
4. Add the finely chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and mushy.
5. Add the prawns and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to turn pink.
6. Now, add the yogurt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, biryani masala powder, and garam masala powder. Mix well to ensure the prawns are well-coated with the spices.
7. Now, the moment of magic! Add the soaked and drained Basmati rice to the pot. Stir gently to combine with the prawn mixture.
8. Add water and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and cook for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and the flavors are well blended.
9. Remove from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains.
10. Garnish your beautiful biryani with the chopped mint and coriander leaves. Serve hot and enjoy the symphony of flavors!