Prawns Biryani

Spicy and Flavorful Prawns Biryani Recipe – A Seafood Delight

Prawns Biryani is a delicious and aromatic rice dish made with fresh prawns, fragrant spices, and long-grain basmati rice. It is a perfect seafood alternative to traditional biryanis and is loved by both seafood enthusiasts and biryani lovers alike. Whether for a weekend special meal or a festive gathering, this recipe will surely impress!

Ingredients

For the Rice:

• 2 cups basmati rice (washed and soaked for 30 minutes)

• 4 cups water

• 2 bay leaves

• 4-5 cloves

• 1-inch cinnamon stick

• 2 green cardamoms

• 1 tsp salt

For the Prawn Masala:

• 250g prawns (cleaned and deveined)

• 1 large onion (thinly sliced)

• 1 large tomato (pureed)

• 2 green chilies (slit)

• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

• ½ cup yogurt

• 1 tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp red chili powder

• 1 tsp coriander powder

• 1 tsp garam masala

• 1 tsp cumin seeds

• 2 tbsp ghee or oil

• ¼ cup chopped coriander leaves

• ¼ cup chopped mint leaves

• Salt to taste

For Layering:

• ¼ cup fried onions

• 1 tbsp saffron milk (soak a few saffron strands in warm milk)

• 1 tbsp ghee

• Handful of cashews and raisins (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

1. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.

2. Add bay leaves, cloves, cinnamon, cardamoms, and salt.

3. Add the soaked rice and cook until 70-80% done.

4. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Prawn Masala

1. Heat ghee or oil in a pan and add cumin seeds.

2. Once they splutter, add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.

3. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking for another minute.

4. Add tomato puree, turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until oil separates.

5. Stir in the prawns and cook for 5-7 minutes until they turn pink and are fully cooked.

6. Add yogurt, garam masala, chopped mint, and coriander leaves. Mix well and cook for a few more minutes.

Step 3: Layer and Cook the Biryani

• In a heavy-bottomed pot, spread a layer of cooked rice.
• Top with half of the prawn masala.
• Repeat layers until all rice and masala are used.
• Drizzle saffron milk, ghee, fried onions, cashews, and raisins on top.
• Cover with a tight lid and cook on low heat for 10-15 minutes (Dum cooking).

Tips & Variations

• Serve hot with raita or plain yogurt.

• Pair with a side of pickle and papad for extra flavor.

• Garnish with extra fried onions and fresh coriander leaves.

• Use fresh prawns for the best flavor and texture.

• You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

• Swap regular yogurt with coconut milk for a coastal-style biryani.

Final Thoughts

Prawns Biryani is an irresistible seafood delicacy that perfectly blends spices and textures. Whether you are a seafood lover or looking for a quick biryani fix, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it out and let me know how it turned out!