Hyderabadi Subz / Murgh Dum Biryani (Saffron, Mint & Crispy Onion Layered Basmati Rice) – Authentic India Recipe

Ingredients for Hyderabadi Subz / Murgh Dum Biryani (Saffron, Mint & Crispy Onion Layered Basmati Rice) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) long-grain aged basmati rice, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups spiced yogurt-marinated chicken or vegetables, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup crispy golden onions (birista)
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with saffron threads in warm milk
• 1.5 tbsp traditional India seasoning (fresh mint and cilantro, green cardamom, cloves, ginger-garlic)
• 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a wide, heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet over medium heat; sauté the onion, garlic, and saffron threads in warm milk until golden.
2. Add fresh mint and cilantro, green cardamom, cloves, ginger-garlic along with long-grain aged basmati rice and spiced yogurt-marinated chicken or vegetables, searing for 4–5 minutes to build savory depth.
3. Stir in the rinsed grains/rice so every grain is coated in the spiced oil, then pour in warm stock.
4. Bring to a simmer, cover tightly with a lid, and cook on low heat for 18–20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and tender.
5. Rest off the heat for 5 minutes, fluff gently with a fork, and garnish with crispy golden onions (birista).