The Ultimate Guide to Making Authentic Kolkata Chicken Biryani
Is an excellent representation of Kolkata's rich culinary heritage. In this lesson, we will go over the intricacies of cooking this traditional dish, so you may reproduce the pleasure in your own home.
History of Kolkata Chicken Biryani
Kolkata Chicken Biryani dates back to the Mughal Empire, yet it has a unique touch that distinguishes it from other biryanis. When Nawab Wajid Ali Shah was exiled in Kolkata, he brought along his royal chefs,
who combined local ingredients with Mughlai techniques to create what we now call Kolkata Chicken Biryani. This biryani is distinguished by its mild flavors, the addition of potatoes, and the usage of aromatic rice.
Ingredients for Kolkata Chicken Biryani: Chicken Biryani Bengali Recipe
Main Ingredients
- Chicken: 1 kg, cut into large pieces
- Basmati Rice: 500 grams
- Potatoes: 3 large, peeled and halved
- Onions: 4 large, thinly sliced
- Tomatoes: 2 medium, chopped
- Yogurt: 200 grams
- Ghee: 100 grams
- Cooking Oil: 100 ml
- Saffron: A pinch, soaked in warm milk
- Rose Water: 2 tablespoons
- Kewra Water: 2 tablespoons
Spice Mix
- Bay Leaves: 2
- Cinnamon Sticks: 2 inches
- Green Cardamom: 6 pods
- Cloves: 6
- Black Peppercorns: 10
- Star Anise: 1
- Mace: 1 strand
- Nutmeg Powder: 1/4 teaspoon
- Red Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Garam Masala: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: To taste
Garnishing
- Fried Onions: 1 cup
- Chopped Coriander Leaves: 1/4 cup
- Chopped Mint Leaves: 1/4 cup
- Boiled Eggs: 2, halved
Step-by-step recipe for Kolkata Chicken Biryani: Chicken Biryani Bengali Recipe
1. Preparing Rice
Rinse the basmati rice in cool water until it is clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes. Bring a big saucepan of water to a boil. Add bay leaves,
cinnamon sticks, green cardamom, cloves, black peppercorns, and salt. Cook the soaking rice until it is 70% done. Drain the rice and set aside.
2. Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure they are completely coated. Allow it to marinade for at least an hour.
3. Cooking the Chicken
Heat oil in a large pan and fry the potatoes until they are golden brown. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, add ghee and fry the sliced onions until they turn golden brown.
Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft. Add the marinated chicken to the pan, along with the garam masala, nutmeg powder, and mace. Cook the chicken until it is tender and the oil separates from the masala.
4. Layering the Biryani
In a heavy-bottomed pot, layer the cooked chicken and potatoes at the bottom. Add a layer of partially cooked rice over the chicken.
Sprinkle fried onions, chopped coriander, mint leaves, rose water, kewra water, and saffron milk over the rice.
Repeat the layering process, ending with a layer of rice on top. Repeat the layering process, ending with a layer of rice on top
5. Dum Cooking
Seal the pot with a tight-fitting lid or cover it with aluminum foil. Place the pot on a low flame and cook the biryani on dum (slow cooking) for 30-40 minutes. Ensure the flame is low to prevent the biryani from burning.
6. Serving the Biryani
Gently mix the layers of biryani before serving to combine the flavors. Garnish with boiled eggs and serve hot with raita, salad, or a side of your choice.
Tips for the Perfect Kolkata Chicken Biryani.
- Use Aged Basmati Rice: The smell and texture of aged basmati rice contribute to the overall flavor of the biryani.
- Marination: Marinating the chicken for an extended period infuses flavors into the flesh and tenderizes it.
- Slow Cooking: Dum cooking on a low flame guarantees that the spices and tastes blend nicely.
Conclusion: Chicken Biryani Bengali Recipe
Creating a real Kolkata Chicken Biryani at home is a satisfying experience that takes Kolkata's rich culinary traditions into your own kitchen.
Following this extensive instruction will allow you to master the art of cooking this renowned dish and impress your family and friends with your culinary talents. Enjoy the subtle flavors and fragrances of this magnificent biryani and savor every bite of this regal delight.