Kala Channa Biryani

Friday evening we had a school event, after the event had no enthu to eat out. For a while now, we have not been able to follow our Friday ritual – family movie time with dinner. Dinner plans were not sorted out, as we all couldn’t agree to one place for take-out :). While the discussions were still going on, I quickly whipped this one pot dish. It was so simple but utterly tasty, was just right thing as we started to watch the movie. It was easy to serve and eat, while sitting on the couch. A cozy meal :).

Ingredients

rice 1 cup
cooked channa 2 cups
onion 1 chopped lengthwise
red chilly powder 3/4 tsp
garam masala powder 1 tsp
salt to taste
thick coconut milk 1/4 cup
water 1 1/4 cup

for tadka/seasoning
oil 1 tbsp
cinnamon 1/2 inch piece
cloves 2
bay leaf 1
cardamom 1

for masala

coriander leaves 1/4 cup
mint leaves 1/4 cup
onion pieces 1/4 cup
garlic 4
tomato 1
green chillies 2
coconut 2 tbsp

for raita
cucumber 1/2 cup finely chopped
onion 1/4 cup finely chopped
curds 1 cup or more
green chilly 1 finely chopped
salt to taste

Method

Grind all the ingredients in the “for masala” section above into a fine paste and set aside.
Wash and soak the rice for 10-15 mins.
Heat oil in a pan, add oil, cinnamon, cloves, bay leaf, cardamom.
Add onions, saute till golden brown.
Pour in the masala paste along with garam masala powder, red chilly powder and salt.
Sauté till the raw smell of the masala is gone.
Add cooked channa, rice and mix well till masala is coated well on the rice and channa.
Add coconut milk, water and bring it to a boil.
Turn the flame down and cook for 12-14 mins till rice is all fluffy and liquid is all absorbed.
Mix all the ingredients in under “for raita” and set aside.
Serve the biryani with raita on the side.. Enjoy!