Muradabadi Biryani with a Paraguayan Twist

Ingredients

In this Paraguayan adaptation of Muradabadi Biryani, we incorporate local ingredients and flavors to create a unique fusion dish. The traditional Indian spices are complemented by the addition of bell peppers and mandioca, which add a distinct Paraguayan touch. The use of fresh herbs and the cooking technique remain true to the original recipe, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors while introducing a new cultural dimension. We alse have the original recipe for Muradabadi biryani, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) basmati rice 2 cups (400g) basmati rice
• 500g chicken, cut into pieces 500g chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 bell peppers, diced 2 bell peppers, diced
• 1 cup (200g) mandioca (cassava), peeled and cubed 1 cup (200g) mandioca (cassava), peeled and cubed
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 2 tomatoes, chopped 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garam masala 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 55g, 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until golden brown.
3. 3.
   Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
4. 4.
   Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides.
5. 5.
   Stir in the diced bell peppers, chopped tomatoes, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, paprika, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. 6.
   Add the soaked and drained basmati rice to the pot, along with the cubed mandioca. Gently mix everything together.
7. 7.
   Pour enough water into the pot to cover the rice and chicken mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the flavors have melded together.
8. 8.
   Sprinkle garam masala over the biryani and gently fluff the rice with a fork. Cover the pot and let it rest for 5 minutes.
9. 9.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Basmati rice — Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch for fluffy grains.
• Mandioca (cassava) — Peel and cube the mandioca before adding it to the biryani for a tender texture.
• Bell peppers — Use a mix of colorful bell peppers to add vibrancy to the dish.
• Garam masala — Sprinkle garam masala at the end to enhance the aroma and flavor of the biryani.
• Fresh cilantro — Use fresh cilantro as a garnish to add a burst of freshness to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier biryani, add a chopped chili pepper along with the bell peppers.
• You can substitute chicken with beef or lamb for a different protein option.
• To make it more Paraguayan, serve the biryani with a side of chimichurri sauce.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a tangy twist.
• Leftover biryani can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors intensify.

Serving advice

Serve the Paraguayan-Inspired Muradabadi Biryani hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Accompany it with a side of chimichurri sauce and a refreshing salad for a complete meal.

Presentation advice

Present the biryani in a large serving dish, allowing the vibrant colors of the bell peppers and mandioca to shine through. Garnish with sprigs of fresh cilantro for an added touch of elegance.