Biryani holds a special place on Ramadan tables across India. After a long day of fasting, families gather around a fragrant pot of rice layered with tender meat and whole spices. This one-pot version simplifies the traditional dum process while keeping the depth intact. Cooking rice and mutton together allows the grains to absorb rich flavours directly from the meat, making it practical for festive evenings when time and coordination matter most.
Place the mutton in a deep bowl and mix it with curd, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Coat each piece evenly so the spices penetrate well. Allow it to rest for at least 20 minutes. This step helps tenderise the meat and develops flavour from within before cooking begins.
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Build the Base
Heat oil and ghee in a heavy-bottomed pot. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. Once aromatic, add sliced onions and cook until golden brown. Stir in green chillies and tomatoes, cooking until the tomatoes soften completely and the oil begins to separate from the masala.
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Cook the Mutton
Add the marinated mutton into the pot and mix thoroughly with the onion-tomato base. Cook uncovered for about 8–10 minutes on medium heat so the meat begins to brown and release juices. Cover and cook on low heat for another 10 minutes, allowing the mutton to partially cook in its own moisture.
Description - Step 4
Add Rice & Liquid
Drain the soaked basmati rice completely. Add it gently over the partially cooked mutton and mix lightly without breaking the grains. Add the remaining salt and 3½ cups of water. Stir once carefully and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
Description - Step 5
Dum Cooking
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot tightly. Cook undisturbed for 20–25 minutes until the rice absorbs all liquid and the mutton becomes tender. Avoid stirring during this stage to maintain long, separate grains. After switching off the heat, let it rest covered for 10 minutes.
Description - Step 6
Final Finish
Open the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork from the sides inward. Sprinkle fresh coriander and mint leaves on top. Serve while hot so the aroma remains intact.