Awadhi Style Lucknowi Mutton Biryani

The origins of Awadhi Lucknowi Biryani can be traced back to the royal kitchens of the rulers of Awadh in the 18th century. It was served at the royal courts of the Nawabs of Awadh, and was said to be the favorite dish of the Nawabs. The Nawabs of Awadh were known to be great connoisseurs of food, and they developed the Awadhi Lucknowi Biryani to its current form.

The Awadhi Lucknowi Biryani is made with the traditional ingredients of basmati rice, mutton, spices, saffron, yogurt and ghee. The meat is cooked in a special marinade of spices, ghee and saffron, and then layered with the cooked basmati rice. This dish is slow cooked on dum, or steam, and is known for its aromatic and flavorful taste.

The Awadhi Lucknowi Biryani is still a popular dish in Lucknow and all over India. It is often served at special occasions like weddings and other festive occasions, and is a favorite of many food lovers.

Preparation of Lucknowi Mutton Biryani

Ingredients:

• 1 kg mutton
• 1 cup Basmati rice
• 3 medium onions, sliced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 green chillies, slit
• 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
• 2 teaspoons coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon red chilli powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 cup yogurt
• 1/4 cup ghee
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 green cardamoms
• 2 cloves
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander leaves
• Salt to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons of kewra water

Instructions:

1. Clean and wash the mutton pieces. Marinate with ginger-garlic paste, coriander powder, cumin powder, red chilli powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, yogurt and salt. Keep aside for an hour.
2. Heat ghee in a pressure cooker. Add bay leaves, cardamom, cloves, cumin seeds, and cinnamon stick and sauté for a few seconds.
3. Add the sliced onions and fry till golden brown.
4. Add the marinated mutton pieces and fry for a few minutes.
5. Add the chopped tomatoes and green chillies. Fry for a few minutes.
6. Add the washed and soaked Basmati rice. Fry for a few minutes.
7. Add enough water to cook the rice and mutton. Add the chopped mint and coriander leaves.
8. Close the lid and pressure cook for 15 minutes.
9. Once done, open the lid and fluff up the rice.
10. Add kewra water and mix gently. Serve hot with raita.

Health Benefits of Awadhi Lucknowi Mutton Biryani

1. High Protein Content: Awadhi Lucknowi Mutton Biryani is an excellent source of protein. It is packed with high quality proteins that are essential for muscle growth and repair. It contains all the essential amino acids that are required for the body to function effectively.

2. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Awadhi Lucknowi Mutton Biryani is also a good source of vitamins and minerals. It contains Vitamin B6, B12, folate, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, iron and potassium. These vitamins and minerals are essential for energy production, cell growth and repair, and healthy functioning of the immune system.

3. Boosts Immunity: The high content of vitamins and minerals in Awadhi Lucknowi Mutton Biryani helps to strengthen the immune system. The high levels of zinc, iron, and Vitamin B12 help to boost the body’s natural defenses against infections and diseases.

4. Improves Digestion: Awadhi Lucknowi Mutton Biryani is rich in fiber, which helps to improve digestion and prevent constipation. The fiber content also helps to reduce cholesterol levels and promote weight loss.

5. Enhances Brain Function: The high levels of Vitamin B6 and folate present in Awadhi Lucknowi Mutton Biryani helps to enhance the brain functioning. It increases concentration and focus, and aids in better memory recall.

6. Boosts Energy Levels: Awadhi Lucknowi Mutton Biryani is a good source of complex carbohydrates and proteins, which helps to boost energy levels and increase endurance. The high content of Vitamin B12 helps to improve the body’s metabolism and increases energy levels.