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Father's Day Buffet & Chicken Biryani 👴

Father's Day Buffet & Chicken Biryani 👴

Weekly newsletter from Mauka Indian Cuisine with exclusive promotions, event information, and more.

Riaz Gillani
June 12, 2024

Wednesday, June 12th, 2024 | Digest #6

Hump Day! Good day to you, friend. We come to you, on this auspicious occasion of ‘Hump Day,’ to announce our Grand Father’s Day Buffet!

Live Appetizers, Biryani, Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian Subzis, and Tandoori—all of it. Be there or be square.

Pro Tip: Keep Scrolling for the Details!

Upcoming Events & Promotions

Father’s Day Brunch Buffet 👴

🤗

Father’s Day is a special day for us—not just because we have the best father in the world (don’t @ me)—but because it’s a day when we get to show our appreciation to all caretakers—to everyone who has supported us and encouraged us to become the very best version of ourselves.

And, what better way to celebrate than with great food! Mauka Indian Cuisine will host a brunch buffet from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM this Sunday, June 16th.

Curious what’s on the menu? Take a look below!

_{Offer cannot be combined with any additional coupons or discounts. Dine-In Only.}

Chicken Biryani ^{_{(Dum Style)}}🥰

IF you had to eat one dish for Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner…

Recipe Background 😮‍💨

Dum-style chicken Biryani is a regal dish that originated in the royal kitchens of India, particularly in Hyderabad. This dish symbolizes celebration and hospitality, cherished for its aromatic flavors and rich textures. The term "dum" refers to the traditional cooking method of slow-cooking the biryani on a low flame, allowing the spices and flavors to meld together beautifully. This technique ensures that each bite is infused with the essence of the spices, tender chicken, and fragrant basmati rice.

Biryani embodies the essence of Indian culinary tradition, symbolizing the grandeur and warmth of Indian hospitality. The dish brings people together, making it a favorite at family gatherings, festive occasions, and special events.

Recipe Breakdown 🧑‍🍳

Ingredients

The Base (Rice and Chicken): The star of this dish is layers of long-grain basmati rice and succulent chicken pieces. The rice is partially cooked and then layered with marinated chicken, which absorbs all the rich spices during the cooking process.
The Marinade and Spices: The chicken is marinated in a blend of yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, and fresh herbs like mint and coriander. This marinade tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor.
The Aromatics: Saffron soaked in warm milk, fried onions, whole spices like cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon, and fresh herbs are essential to the layering process, adding depth and aroma to the biryani.

Understanding the Process

Preparing the Chicken Marinade:

Start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, mint, and coriander. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to absorb all the flavors.

Cooking the Rice:

Parboil the basmati rice in salted water with whole spices like cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon until it is about 70% cooked. Drain the rice and set it aside. This step ensures that the rice finishes cooking perfectly during the dum process.

Layering the Biryani:

In a heavy-bottomed pot, spread a layer of the marinated chicken at the bottom. Sprinkle a portion of fried onions over the chicken, followed by a layer of parboiled rice. Drizzle with saffron milk and ghee, and add a handful of fresh mint and coriander leaves. Repeat these layers, finishing with a final layer of rice and aromatics.

Dum Cooking:

Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, sealing the edges with dough to trap the steam. Cook on low heat for about 30-40 minutes. This slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to cook tenderly, infusing the rice with its rich taste.

Final Adjustments:

Once the biryani is done, let it rest for a few minutes before breaking the seal. Gently fluff the rice with a fork, ensuring the layers remain intact. Serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander and a side of raita or salad.

🤤

Endless Variations

Aside from these core elements, you’ll find that everyone has their own preferences regarding Biryani. Here are some ways you can customize this beloved dish to make it uniquely your own:

Protein Swaps: While chicken is the traditional choice, you can substitute it with lamb, goat, or vegetables for a vegetarian version. Each variation brings its unique flavor and texture to the biryani.

Spice Level: Adjust the heat according to your preference. Add more green chilies or red chili powder for a spicier biryani, or keep it mild with fewer chilies.

Rice Alternatives: Although basmati rice is traditional, you can experiment with other long-grain rice varieties. Brown rice can be used for a healthier twist.

Flavor Enhancements: Add nuts like cashews or almonds, and dried fruits like raisins for an extra layer of richness. A splash of rose water or kewra water can also enhance the aromatic profile of your biryani.

Serving Suggestions: To complement the rich flavors, pair your biryani with cooling raita, fresh salad, or tangy pickles. A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can add a refreshing zest.

Dum-style chicken Biryani is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit various tastes and occasions. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore new variations, this iconic dish will surely be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.