Kathal (Jackfruit) Biryani Recipe: A Hidden Gem of Indian Cuisine

When it comes to Desi cuisine, biryani is an undisputed favourite, known for its aromatic spices and succulent layers of flavour. But have you ever explored the delight of Kathal Biryani? This unique dish is a hidden gem in the world of Desi food, combining the rich and fragrant essence of biryani with the subtle yet hearty taste of jackfruit. Let’s dive into this exclusive recipe that's sure to captivate your taste buds and elevate your culinary adventures!

 

Ingredients:

 

Jackfruit (Kathal): 500 grams, unripe and cut into chunks.

Basmati Rice: 2 cups, soaked for 30 minutes.

Onions: 3 large, thinly sliced.

Tomatoes: 2 large, chopped.

Yogurt: 1 cup.

Ginger-Garlic Paste: 2 tablespoons.

Green Chilies: 2-3, slit.

Biryani Masala: 2 tablespoons (or adjust to taste).

Turmeric Powder: 1/2 teaspoon.

Red Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste).

Coriander Powder: 1 tablespoon.

Mint Leaves: Handful, chopped.

Coriander Leaves: Handful, chopped.

Saffron Strands: A pinch, soaked in warm milk.

Ghee: 4 tablespoons.

Oil: 4 tablespoons.

Salt: To taste.

 

Instructions:

 

1. Preparing the Jackfruit:

Boil the jackfruit chunks with a little salt until they're tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.

 

2. Cooking the Rice:

In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add soaked rice and cook until it's 70-80% done. Drain and keep aside.

 

3. Making Biryani Masala:

In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, biryani masala, turmeric, red chili powder, and coriander powder.

 

4. Biryani Base:

Heat ghee and oil in a pan. Add sliced onions and cook until golden brown. Add chopped tomatoes and green chilies, and sauté until the tomatoes soften.

 

5. Layering:

In a heavy-bottomed pot, layer half of the boiled rice. Add a layer of the cooked jackfruit and biryani masala. Sprinkle chopped mint and coriander leaves.

 

6. Repeat Layering:

Add the remaining rice and top it with saffron-infused milk, along with a few drops of ghee.

 

7. Dum Cooking:

Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid or seal the edges with dough to create a dum (Steam Lock) effect. Cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes.

 

8. Serve:

Once done, gently mix the layers and serve the aromatic Kathal Biryani hot, garnished with fried onions and fresh coriander.

Delight in the Fusion of Flavors:

This Kathal Biryani brings a refreshing twist to the traditional biryani, introducing the subtly robust taste of jackfruit to the layers of fragrant spices and basmati rice. The tender yet hearty texture of the jackfruit perfectly absorbs the rich blend of spices, creating a dish that's both comforting and exquisite.

 

If you're looking to surprise your taste buds with an authentic Desi delicacy, Kathal Biryani is an exploration worth taking. Explore this hidden gem and treat yourself to the fusion of flavours that make Desi cuisine so wonderfully diverse and delightful!