Mom's Special Biryani!

Some meals are not just about the taste but about the moments that become memories.

For me, Mom's Biryani has always been a special dish.

I still remember one Sunday when everyone was at home — Dad was reading the newspaper, the kids were running around, and the kitchen smelled of something that could only mean one thing: Biryani Day!

Someone asked what Mom was cooking today?

She smiled and said softly, "The joy that comes layer by layer." 

As the onions turned golden and the sound of rice bubbling filled the air, the whole house felt warm and alive. It wasn't just the food — it was the love of cooking over a slow heat.

 Ingredients (serves 6-8)

Basmati rice - 2 cups (soaked for 30 minutes) 

Chicken - 1 kg (cut into medium pieces).    

Yogurt - 1 cup.                                                      

Fried onions - 2 medium.                          T

omatoes - 2 chopped                                      

Ginger garlic paste - 2 tablespoon.                  

Green chillies - 4-5.                                    

Coriander and mint - a handful each.          

Biryani masala - 2 tablespoons                          

Salt and cayenne pepper - to taste.                     

 Oil or ghee - ½ cup.                                         

 Saffron or yellow food colour - a pinch.

How to make:                                                    

Mom first marinated the chicken with yogurt, spices and a little oil.

While it was resting, she boiled the rice until it was half cooked — “Don’t let it get too soft,” she always said.

 In a large pot, she placed a layer of rice, then marinated chicken, fried onions, mint, and coriander – and finally another layer of rice on top.

A drizzle of saffron, a few drops of ghee, and then the lid went off – the secret to every perfect biryani: patience.

When the lid was finally lifted, steam and aroma filled the house. Everyone gathered without being invited. Dad smiled, my brother grabbed his plate first, and Mom simply said,

“See? Food brings everyone together.”

As we ate, I realized – biryani is not just about rice and chicken.

It’s about family, laughter, and the warmth of home that lingers long after the meal is over.