Malabar Beef Biryani Recipe: How to make easy Malabar Beef?

Malabari Beef Biryani is a fragrant, rich, and aromatic dish hailing from the coastal region of Kerala, India. This delightful one-pot dish combines succulent beef marinated in spices, tender basmati rice, and a symphony of flavors that evoke the essence of Malabari cuisine. The dish’s unique combination of spices, including cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, mingles beautifully with the juicy beef and perfectly cooked rice, creating an unforgettable meal. Ideal for family gatherings or special occasions, this Malabari Beef Biryani will take your taste buds on a savory journey like no other.

Ingredients:

For marinating the beef:

• 1.5 pounds (700 grams) beef (preferably chuck or brisket), cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup plain yogurt (preferably whole milk)
• 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
• 2 teaspoons red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• Salt to taste
• Juice of 1 lime

For the Biryani:

• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) or vegetable oil
• 2 medium onions, finely sliced
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 4 cups basmati rice, soaked in water for 30 minutes and drained
• 4 cups water or beef stock
• 4-5 whole cloves
• 4-5 green cardamom pods
• 1-2-inch cinnamon stick
• Bay leaves (2)
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• Fresh mint leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• Fried onions (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

1. Preparation: In a large mixing bowl, add the cubed beef.
2. Combine ingredients: Add yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, salt, and lime juice to the beef. Mix well ensuring all pieces are coated evenly.
3. Marination: Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Cooking the Beef

1. Heat the ghee/oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot (preferably a Dutch oven or biryani pot), heat the ghee or oil over medium heat.
2. Fry the onions: Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown and caramelized. This may take about 8-10 minutes.
3. Add green chilies: Stir in the slit green chilies and cook for another minute.
4. Cook the marinated beef: Add the marinated beef to the pot and cook on high heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned.
5. Add water: Pour in 4 cups of water (or beef stock) to the pot. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the beef is tender.

Step 3: Cooking the Rice

1. Parboil the rice: In a separate pot, boil water and add the soaked basmati rice, a pinch of salt, and 2 whole green cardamom pods. Cook the rice for about 7-8 minutes until it’s 70% done. Drain the rice and set it aside.

Step 4: Layering the Biryani

1. Layer beef and rice: Once the beef is tender, check for seasoning. If needed, adjust with more salt. Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly across the bottom of the pot.
2. Add spices: Sprinkle the whole cloves, bay leaves, and remaining cardamom pods over the beef.
3. Add rice: Gently layer the parboiled rice over the beef without mixing, ensuring an even distribution.
4. Final touches: Drizzle a bit more ghee on top of the rice, and if desired, layer fresh coriander and mint leaves on top for aroma and flavor.

Step 5: Dum Cooking

1. Seal the pot: Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. You can seal it with dough made from flour to trap the steam (optional).
2. Cook on low heat: Cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes. This process, called ‘dum,’ allows the flavors to develop and the rice to finish cooking.
3. Serving: Once done, turn off the heat and let it sit for another 10 minutes. Open the lid carefully, fluff the biryani, and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions:

Malabari Beef Biryani is best served warm with the following accompaniments:

• Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side, with cucumber and mint, helps balance the spices.
• Salad: A simple salad of sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions complements the richness of the biryani.
• Pickles: Try serving with lime or mango pickles for an added tang.
• Beverages: Pair with a refreshing drink like mint lemonade or chilled rose water.

Nutritional Information:

Malabari Beef Biryani offers a balanced blend of macronutrients:

• Protein: The beef provides a substantial amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Fresh herbs and spices enhance the nutritional profile with vitamins A, C, iron, and antioxidants.
• Carbohydrates: Basmati rice is a great source of energy and provides fiber, which is beneficial for digestion.
• Healthy Fats: Ghee offers healthy fats that aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Conclusion:

Malabari Beef Biryani is more than just a meal; it is an experience steeped in the rich culinary traditions of Kerala. With its unique blend of spices and flavors, this dish can make any meal feel special. Perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike, this recipe breaks down the process into manageable steps, allowing you to savor every delicious bite. Now that you have this recipe at your fingertips, gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and enjoy a taste of Malabar right in your home!