Introduction
The kathal biryani recipe (jackfruit biryani) is a unique vegetarian dish that brings together the rich flavors of biryani with the meaty texture of raw jackfruit. This dish in Andhra Pradesh is commonly referred to as panasa pottu biryani.
It is celebrated across India. The biryani offers a delightful twist on the classic recipe by using kathal (young jackfruit) as a substitute for meat
Being famous because of the perfect bite and its ability to absorb complex flavours from biryani spices, this is more than just another recipe. Interested in "Is jackfruit biryani
healthy?" or just wondering "How many calories are in jackfruit biryani"? Let's take a look at ingredients, step-by-step preparation, and some interesting facts about such an appetising kathal biryani recipe.
What Is Kathal Biryani?
Kathal biryani is a layered rice dish that uses raw jackfruit (kathal) as its main ingredient, paired with basmati rice and a blend of traditional Indian spices.Firstly, in the dum method, kathal is marinated in spices, it gets soft, and then it is layered with aromatic rice.
Then, it gets slow-cooked through the dum method in which deep flavors mingle perfectly. While technically a fruit, its use in raw form is more akin to meat, so jackfruit can be used to great effect in vegetarian versions of dishes that traditionally rely on meat, such as this kathal biryani recipe.
Ingredients for Kathal Biryani Recipe
It takes a good many spices and fresh ingredients to make this kathal biryani recipe, so here are the ingredients you will need for every layer:
Ingredients | Quantity |
Raw jackfruit (kathal), diced | 300 grams |
Basmati rice | 1.5 cups |
Yogurt (curd) | 1/2 cup |
Fried onions | 1 cup |
Ginger-garlic paste | 1 tbsp |
Green chilies (slit) | 2-3 |
Turmeric powder | 1/2 tsp |
Red chili powder | 1 tsp |
Garam masala | 1 tsp |
Coriander powder | 1 tsp |
Whole spices (cloves, cardamom, cinnamon) | 1 tsp |
Saffron strands soaked in milk | 1 tbsp |
Fresh mint leaves | 1/4 cup |
Fresh coriander leaves | 1/4 cup |
Ghee or oil | 3 tbsp |
Salt | To taste |
How to Make Kathal Biryani at Home: Step-by-Step Instructions
In order to achieve an excellent kathal biryani, the preparation involves cooking the raw jackfruit and partially cooked rice. They are alternately layered together to make a mouthful delicacy.
Step 1: Preparation of raw jackfruit
Raw jackfruit should be thoroughly cleaned and cut into small pieces to be free of unappealing bites. Then boil in salted water for 10 minutes in order to become slightly tender; drain and reserve.
Mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt all together in a mixing bowl. Add the parboiled jackfruit pieces and marinate for 20-30 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Basmati Rice
Rinse the basmati rice in cold water until the water is clear. Soak for 30 minutes.
In a large pot, boil water with just a pinch of salt and all spices (clove, cardamom, cinnamon).
Add the soaked rice and cook to about 70% - 80% till the grains are still firm. Drain and set it aside.
Step 3: Preparing the Kathal Masala
Heat ghee or oil in the pan and add the marinated jack pieces. Cook on medium flame till the jackfruit turns golden brown.
Put the green chilies in and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes.
Add garam masala and salt according to your taste. Stir well so the spices don't settle at one place.
Step 4: Layer the Biryani
Take a heavy-bottomed pot and layer the biryani. Start with the kathal masala layer followed by the partially cooked basmati rice layer. You can put some fried onions, mint leaves, and coriander leaves on the rice layer.
Drizzle the saffron milk on top for an aromatic perfume and beautiful color.
Repeat the layers until all rice and kathal are used.
Step 5: Dum Cooking the Biryani
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid or seal it with aluminum foil.
Let the biryani cook over the low flame for 20-25 min so all the flavours mix well. This process is popularly known as dum, which gives its typical taste and texture.
Switch off the flame and leave the biryani to rest for 10 min before serving.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Fluff up the biryani with a fork gently and serve hot with a raita or a refreshing cucumber salad for the perfect balance.
Is Jackfruit Biryani Healthy?
Yes, jackfruit biryani can be a healthy choice for your diet if it contains moderate levels of oil and served with crunchy fresh veggies. Here's why:
High in Fiber: Jackfruit is a rich source of dietary fiber. It helps digest the stomach and keeps a person full for a long time.
Vegan Protein: Although not that rich in proteins in comparison to the legumes, still it is considered a good protein-rich content source, making it quite a delightful fit for a vegan or a vegetarian diet.
Low Fat: With minimal addition of ghee or oil while preparing, the kathal biryani could be described as low in fat and just as delicious as the traditional meat-based biryanis.
Packed with Nutrients: It is filled with a good amount of all the very important vitamins such as vitamin C and A, and minerals like potassium and magnesium.
How Much Calories Jackfruit Biryani Contains
It differs in calorific value as it depends upon the amount of oil and rice besides the quantity of jackfruit used. Typically, a serving of jackfruit biryani would amount to about 350-400 calories, so it is a fairly reasonable option for those requiring calorie control. It can be trimmed even more with low fat yogurt and lesser ghee.
What Is Panasa Pottu Biryani?
This dish is known by the other name of kathal biryani in some parts of South India, especially in Andhra Pradesh. 'Panasa' refers to jackfruit, and 'pottu' points to its shredded or diced form. Therefore, this particular dish is similar to kathal biryani Kerala style, though with a few regional spices and herbs being used to create variation.
Origin of Jackfruit Biryani: Unique Culinary Tradition
Jackfruit biryani, also known as kathal biryani, is a dish that originates from other parts of India such as Kerala and Hyderabad. While Kerala has been cooking jackfruit into many dishes for a long time, the city of Hyderabad is especially famous for its signature dum biryanis. The combination of jackfruit and biryani is probably a product from some ways that vegetarians could enjoy the rich flavours of biryani and at the same time not use meat.
Best Kathal Biryani Recipe Tips
Use Fresh Raw Jackfruit: Freshly cut jackfruit is softer and juicier than the canned products. It can be cooked and absorbs spices so amazing.
Marinate Longer for Flavor: Marinating the jackfruit at least 30 minutes ensures that it will absorb spices well, which results in a more flavorful dish at the end.
Regulate the Heat During Dum: Do not burn the biryani, use a thick-bottomed pot and keep low heat during the dum process. Or use a griddle underneath the pot to distribute heat evenly.
Variation of Jackfruit Biryani Recipe
Kathal Dum Biryani: It is slow-cooked biryani in a sealed pot, letting the flavours deeply penetrate into the dish.
Kathal Biryani Kerala Style: The kathal masala needs some coconut milk to be added, and spices such as fennel seeds and curry leaves, for that rich creamy texture.
Spicy Jackfruit Biryani: Increase the green chilies and red chilli powder in the traditional recipe for a spicier version.
FAQ’s
Is jackfruit biryani healthy?
Yes, jackfruit biryani is healthy as it has fibre content and whole spices used, though made with a minimum amount of oil. So it can be considered a healthy meal for vegetarians.
What is Panasa pottu biryani?
The panasa pottu biryani is a South Indian variety of jackfruit biryani primarily from the state of Andhra Pradesh. It uses shredded pieces of jackfruit along with other local spices for preparation of a tangy flavoured biryani.
How many calories are there in jackfruit biryani?
One serving of jackfruit biryani would amount to 350-400 calories, according to the ratio of rice, oil, and jackfruit.
Final Say
The kathal biryani recipe brings out a fantastic vegetarian version over the traditional meat-based biryanis. This jackfruit biryani is irresistible both for vegetarians and non-vegetarians with its rich blend of spices, its tender jackfruit, and the aromatic rice. Whether you want to try it for health reasons or simply as a different twist on biryani, this jackfruit biryani is surely going to be one of your favourites. Try it at home or order it online from your favourite spot, and enjoy the delightful flavours of this unique dish.
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