Food Recipe by Suchandra Ganguly
The Biryani Effect: A South Indian Turn on a Classical Dish:
Biryani, which is a dish close to the heart and filled with memories, particularly in Bengali families. The word itself brings tears of nostalgia as it reminds one of family get-togethers, festivals, and celebrations. In Bengal, biryani is not only a dish, but an emotion. And what’s more symbolic than adding potatoes to our dearest biryani? The soft potatoes, cooked along with the fragrant rice and spices, are a revelation.
A Country United by Biryani:
From the Hyderabadi dum biryani to the Kolkata-style biryani, the Lucknowi biryani, and the Tamil Nadu-style biryani, there is a biryani variation in every region of India. The options are limitless, and the passion for biryani knows no bounds. In South India, we too have our own version of biryani, using local ingredients and spices.
Malabar Fish Biryani: A South Indian Delight
Today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to my fish biryani recipe, which is a South Indian variation of this popular dish. King fish is what I have used here, but if you happen to be in Bengal, Ilish or even Rui (Rohu) fish would do very well. Both these fish species would pair wonderfully with the spices and rice.
Malabar Fish Biryani Recipe
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons ghee
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
– 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, as needed
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 500g king fish (or Bhapa Ilish/Rui fish), cut into large pieces
– 2 onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 inch ginger, grated
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Boil the rice and keep aside.
2. Heat ghee in a pan and put cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and fennel seeds.
3. Put the chopped onions, garlic, and ginger and sauté until the onions turn translucent.
4. Put the fish pieces and fry until they’re half cooked.
5. Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala powder, and mix well.
6. Layer the cooked fish and rice mixture in a large pot or vessel.
7. Cover and cook over low heat for 10-15 minutes.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
The Biryani Experience
Fish biryani is a meal and so much more. The scent of the spices, the taste of the fish, and the soft rice all blend together to make a dish that is simply priceless. So, go ahead, try out this recipe, and see how it goes!
