Hyderabadi Egg Biryani: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction to Hyderabadi Egg Biryani

Hyderabadi Egg Biryani is a mouthwatering dish that hails from the vibrant city of Hyderabad, known for its rich history and exquisite cuisine. This biryani variant combines aromatic and flavorful basmati rice with hard-boiled eggs and a blend of traditional spices, offering a unique twist to the classic biryani.

Ingredients

- Basmati rice: 2 cups - Hard-boiled eggs: 6 - Onions, thinly sliced: 2 large - Tomatoes, finely chopped: 2 medium - Ginger-garlic paste: 2 tablespoons - Green chilies, slit: 4 - Mint leaves, chopped: 1/2 cup - Cilantro (coriander leaves), chopped: 1/2 cup - Yogurt (curd): 1 cup - Biryani masala powder: 2 tablespoons - Turmeric powder: 1/2 teaspoon - Red chili powder: 1 teaspoon - Saffron strands, soaked in warm milk: a pinch - Ghee (clarified butter): 4 tablespoons - Cooking oil: as needed - Salt: to taste

Making Process

1. Preparation: Wash and soak the basmati rice for at least 30 minutes. Meanwhile, hard-boil the eggs and fry them until golden brown in a separate pan with some oil. 2. Cooking Rice: In a large pot, bring water to a boil, and add spices like bay leaves, cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon along with salt. Add the soaked rice and cook until it's 70% done. Drain and set aside. 3. Biryani Masala: In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat oil and ghee. Add sliced onions and fry until golden brown. Add ginger-garlic paste, tomatoes, green chilies, mint, cilantro, biryani masala powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until oil separates. 4. Layering: Spread half of the cooked rice in a layer over the masala. Place the fried eggs on top and cover with the remaining rice. Sprinkle saffron milk over it. 5. Dum (Steaming): Cover the pan with a tight lid or seal it with dough. Cook on low heat for about 20 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and flavors are infused. 6. Serving: Gently fluff the rice and serve hot with raita or mirchi ka salan.

Conclusion

Hyderabadi Egg Biryani is not just a dish; it's an experience that brings together flavors, aromas, and traditions in one pot. Whether it's a festive occasion or a cozy family dinner, this biryani is sure to be a hit!