Hyderabadi Nawabi Biryani is a very special kind of traditional rice dish that comes from the southern city of
Hyderabad. This recipe has evolved from the royal kitchen of the Nawabs of Hyderabad. The method of making biryani and its ingredients are a closely guarded secret. It normally takes 8-10 hrs to prepare this and is quite complicated with Basmati rice, meat and thick gravy cooked in several layers which is very aromatic. The heart of biryani lies in its tandoori style of preparation. The flavoring agent in this biryani is ‘polti ka masala,’ a combination of 21 condiments, herbs and spices that even include rose petals. ‘Kacchi’ and ‘Puccki’ biryani are two major variations in this dish. The difference lies in the preparation and the pre cooking respectively. This recipe is special in the city for special occasions. This rich preparation is usually served hot with curd, chutney or with bagare baingan curry.
