Cookbook:Simple Biryani

Tradiational biryani recipes often use many ingredients, some of which may be hard to find. This simple biryani recipe uses only a few ingredients, and can be made in just one pan, making a quick and easy meal.

Ingredients

 * 300 g basmati rice, soaked in warm water for 30 minutes
 * 600 g chicken, cut into pieces
 * 1 large onion, chopped
 * 30 g butter
 * 1 bay leaf
 * 1 tsp tumeric
 * 3 cardamom pods
 * 1 cinnamon stick
 * 4 tbsp curry paste
 * 100 g raisins
 * 850 ml chicken stock
 * 2 tbsp coriander

Procedure

 * 1) Wash the rice with cold water until it runs clear.
 * 2) Cook the onion, cardamom pods, bay leaves, and cinnamon in the butter for 10 minutes.
 * 3) Add the chicken, turmeric, and curry paste, and cook for 5 minutes.
 * 4) Add the rice and raisins and then the chicken stock.
 * 5) Cover the pan tightly and bring to the boil.
 * 6) Reduce the heat to low and cook for 5 minutes.
 * 7) Remove from the heat and rest for 10 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb any remaining moisture.
 * 8) Stir in half the coriander and serve with the rest sprinkled over the top.

Notes, tips, and variations

 * Add chopped chilli peppers to give a little more heat.
 * Sprinkle roasted nuts along with the coriander to provide a crunchy texture.