| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 40 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 290 | 10g | 1.5g | 45g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 4g | 6g | 0.8g |
It’s not every day that a recipe blends the vibrance of fresh fruits and vegetables with the warming spices of traditional biryani, but that’s exactly what Grains of Selim Infused Biryani brings to the table. The unique incorporation of Grains of Selim into this dish transforms it into something truly distinct and unforgettable. If you aren’t familiar with Grains of Selim, often referred to as African pepper, it’s got this smoky, peppery profile that intensifies the flavors, adding a layer of complexity.
A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation
Growing up in Charleston, South Carolina, I was always surrounded by the rich heritage of Southern cuisine. Biscuits and fried chicken are deeply embedded in my culinary DNA, but coastal flavors have also carved out a significant niche in my cooking arsenal. Mixing these influences with global cuisines is always an exhilarating experience for me. This Grains of Selim Infused Biryani is a perfect example of marrying age-old traditions with innovative ingredients.
One of the things I treasure about this recipe is its versatility. It’s similar to a classic Vegetable Biryani but with a twist that makes it stand out. The Grains of Selim offer an exotic undertone that pairs beautifully with the sweet bell peppers, carrots, and peas. Plus, the addition of fresh herbs like mint and cilantro elevates the dish, making it burst with freshness. If you’re someone who loves dishes like Pilaf or Jollof Rice, you’re in for a treat with this biryani.
Rich in Nutrients and Flavor
Another reason I adore this recipe is its nutritional benefits. Biryani often gets a bad rap for being indulgent, but this vegetable-heavy version is both wholesome and satisfying. Basmati rice is a lighter alternative to other grains, providing that perfect fluffy texture without feeling heavy. The vegetables are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making this dish not just delightful for your taste buds but beneficial for your health as well.
The almonds add a delightful crunch while contributing healthy fats, and if you opt to include the raisins, they offer a touch of natural sweetness without any guilt. This dish also keeps well in the fridge for a few days, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. Just pair it with some fresh lemon wedges, and you got yourself a wholesome meal that feels like a cozy hug.
If you want to explore more about the unique spices like Grains of Selim that elevate traditional dishes, click here to dive deeper. To complement this dish, you might also try serving it with a side of crisp salad to balance out the rich flavors.
So go ahead, make this Grains of Selim Infused Biryani, and savor every exotic bite. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your stomach but also takes you on a culinary adventure, right from the comfort of your home.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 6 Grains of Selim, broken into pieces
- 2 large tomatoes, chopped
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- Lemon wedges for serving
Method
Step One
Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.
Step Two
Heat the vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and sauté until golden brown and caramelized, about 10 minutes.
Step Three
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Step Four
Stir in the turmeric powder, ground coriander, ground cumin, and the broken Grains of Selim. Cook for 2 minutes to toast the spices, enhancing their flavors.
Step Five
Add the chopped tomatoes, diced carrot, and chopped bell pepper to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Step Six
Mix in the drained basmati rice, making sure it is well-coated with the spice mixture. Add the frozen peas and raisins (if using), and stir to combine.
Step Seven
Pour the vegetable broth into the pan and add salt to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
Step Eight
Remove the pan from heat. Gently fluff the biryani with a fork. Stir in the chopped fresh mint leaves and cilantro.
Step Nine
Transfer the Grains of Selim Infused Biryani to a serving dish. Garnish with toasted sliced almonds.
Step Ten
Serve the biryani hot, accompanied by lemon wedges. Enjoy!
