Fish Biryani

 

Fish Biryani Recipe: A Delicious Twist on Tradition

Fish Biryani is a flavorful and aromatic dish that brings a delightful twist to traditional biryani. Perfect for seafood lovers, this dish combines tender fish fillets with fragrant basmati rice and rich spices. Here's a simple yet authentic recipe to try at home!

Ingredients:

• For the Marinade:

  • 500g fish fillets (pomfret, tilapia, or salmon)
  • 1/2 cup yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Juice of 1 lemon

• For the Biryani:

  • 2 cups basmati rice, soaked for 30 minutes
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro (coriander leaves)
  • 1/4 cup mint leaves
  • 2-3 green chilies, slit
  • Whole spices: 2 bay leaves, 4 cloves, 2-inch cinnamon stick, 3 cardamom pods, 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 cup coconut milk or water
  • 1/2 teaspoon saffron strands (optional, soaked in 2 tablespoons milk)
  • 2 tablespoons ghee or cooking oil
  • Instructions:

1. Marinate the Fish:

   • In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and lemon juice.
   • Coat the fish fillets thoroughly and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Rice:

   • Boil water in a large pot. Add the soaked rice and whole spices. Cook until the rice is 70% done. Drain and set aside.

3. Cook the Fish:

   • Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a pan. Lightly fry the marinated fish until golden but not fully cooked. Set aside.

4. Prepare the Biryani Masala:

   • In a deep pan or pot, heat the remaining oil or ghee. Fry the onions until golden brown.
   • Add green chilies and tomatoes. Cook until soft.
   • Stir in cilantro, mint, and a pinch of salt.

5. Layering the Biryani:

   • Spread a layer of rice at the bottom of the pot, followed by a layer of fish and biryani masala.
   • Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.
   • Drizzle saffron milk over the top layer.

6. Dum Cooking (Steam):

   • Cover the pot tightly and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes.
   • Allow the biryani to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

Fish Biryani pairs wonderfully with raita, salad, or a refreshing mint chutney.

This Fish Biryani recipe is a must-try for any Pakistani food enthusiast looking to add a seafood twist to their biryani collection. Enjoy this rich, aromatic delight and impress your family with your culinary skills!

For more mouthwatering Pakistani recipes, visit Pakistani Recipes by ZNB.