For marinating the mutton:
1 kgMutton shanks or shoulder (bone-in)
2 tablespoonsBiryani spice mix
1 cupGreek yoghurt
For the mutton curry:
350 gGhee or oil
4 largeOnions (3 thinly sliced, 1 cut roughly)
2Green chillies
3 tablespoonsGinger-garlic paste
2 tablespoonsRaw cashews
5Bay leaves
2Cinnamon sticks
2 teaspoonsCumin seeds
2Black cardamom
2Star anise
1 teaspoonCloves
1Fresh mint (bunch)
1 teaspoonRosewater
3 teaspoonsSalt
2 teaspoonsSugar
For the rice:
4 cupsBasmati rice (aged, long grain)
5 cupsWater
1 cupEvaporated milk or full-fat milk
4 tablespoonsGhee
4-5Pandan leaves (knotted)
2Lemongrass stalks (optional)
1 setWhole spices (cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, star anise)
to tasteSalt
a few dropsYellow food colouring or turmeric water (optional)
For garnish and serving:
½ cupFried shallots (crispy)
¼ cup Raisins
¼ cup Cashew nuts (toasted)
for servingDalcha (lentil stew)
for servingAchar (pickles - cucumber and fruit)
2-3Hard-boiled eggs (optional)