Mandhi Biryani is a delightful fusion of traditional biryani and Arabian-style Mandhi, bringing together rich spices and slow-cooked meat for an unforgettable meal. The Village Food Channel has once again showcased its expertise in large-scale cooking, preparing a mouthwatering beef Mandhi Biryani. Let’s break down the recipe and recreate this unique dish in our own kitchen.
Ingredients for the Meat Preparation
- Beef – 1 kg (cut into large chunks)
- Kashmiri chilli powder – 2 tbsp
- Black pepper powder (mizhagu podi) – 1 tbsp
- Turmeric powder (manjal podi) – 1 tsp
- Salt – As per taste (extra for seasoning)
- Chat masala – 1 tsp
- Food colour – A pinch (optional)
- Ghee or Oil – 3 tbsp
Preparing the Meat (Dum Cooking)
- In a large mixing bowl, combine Kashmiri chilli powder, black pepper powder, turmeric powder, salt, chat masala, and food colour.
- Add the beef chunks to the spice mix and massage it well, ensuring the spices coat the meat evenly.
- In a heavy-bottomed pot or pressure cooker, add ghee or oil and sear the beef until lightly browned.
- Cover the pot and cook the beef on low flame (dum style) for about 2-3 hours until tender. Add water if necessary.
Ingredients for Kerala-Style Empty Biryani
- Basmati rice – 2 cups (soaked for 30 minutes)
- Onions – 2 large (sliced thinly)
- Tomatoes – 2 medium (chopped)
- Ginger-garlic paste – 2 tbsp
- Green chillies – 2 (slit)
- Cinnamon – 1 small stick
- Cloves – 3-4
- Cardamom – 2
- Bay leaf – 1
- Ghee – 3 tbsp
- Salt – As per taste
- Water or stock – 4 cups
Cooking the Biryani (Kerala-Style Empty Biryani)
- In a large pot, heat ghee and add whole spices (cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, bay leaf).
- Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and green chillies, cooking until the raw smell disappears.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft.
- Add soaked and drained basmati rice, gently stirring to coat it in the masala.
- Pour in water or beef stock, add salt, and bring it to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and let it cook on low flame until the rice is fluffy and cooked through.
Serving Mandhi Biryani
- Spread the empty biryani rice onto a large serving plate or a traditional Mandhi plate.
- Gently place the slow-cooked dum beef on top of the rice.
- Drizzle some melted ghee over the top for added flavour.
- Serve hot with raita, pickle, or a side of spicy gravy.
Mandhi Biryani is all about the balance of flavours and slow cooking. The Village Food Channel’s version beautifully highlights the essence of both biryani and Mandhi techniques, making this dish a must-try for all food lovers.
Watch the Full Video Below:
A Special Tribute to Village Food Channel
This incredible recipe is inspired by the talented team behind Village Food Channel, who consistently bring authentic village-style cooking to a global audience. Their dedication to preserving traditional cooking techniques and sharing delicious recipes is truly commendable.
Try this recipe and experience the magic of Mandhi Biryani at home!