Authentic Shrimp Biryani

Ingredients

• Fried onions (1/2 cup)
• Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped)
• Ghee (2 tablespoons)
• Salt (to taste)
• Bay leaf (1)
• Cardamom pods (5)
• Cloves (5)
• Cinnamon stick (1)
• Cumin seeds (1 teaspoon)
• Garam masala (1 teaspoon)
• Red chili powder (1/2 teaspoon)
• Turmeric powder (1/2 teaspoon)
• Yogurt (1/2 cup)
• Ginger (1 tablespoon, grated)
• Tomato (1, chopped)
• Onion (1, sliced)
• Basmati rice (1 1/2 cups)
• Shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined)

Instructions

1. Start by washing the basmati rice under running water until the water runs clear. Then, soak the rice in water for 30 minutes before draining. This process helps to remove excess starch and ensures the grains remain separate when cooked.
2. Heat the ghee in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom pods, and bay leaf. Sauté these ingredients for a minute until they release their fragrant aroma.
3. Next, add the sliced onions to the pot and cook until they turn a beautiful golden brown color.
4. Now, add the grated ginger and continue to sauté for a minute until the ginger is fragrant.
5. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and cook until they become soft and mushy. This forms the base of your Biryani.
6. Now, it's time to add the aromatic spices. Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Mix well to ensure the spices are well incorporated.
7. Next, add the shrimp to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp as they can become rubbery.
8. Add the soaked and drained basmati rice to the pot. Stir gently to combine with the shrimp and spices, ensuring every grain of rice is coated with the flavorsome mixture.
9. Add the yogurt and salt to the pot and mix well. The yogurt helps to tenderize the shrimp and adds a creamy texture to the Biryani.
10. Pour 3 cups of water into the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and the flavors are well blended.
11. After the Biryani is done cooking, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the rice to absorb any remaining moisture.
12. Finally, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro and fried onions. Your authentic Shrimp Biryani is ready to be served. Enjoy this feast for the senses, hot and fresh from your kitchen.