Biryani Iraqi
برياني عراقي (beer-YAH-nee ee-RAH-qee)
Iraqi Spiced Rice with Lamb
Fragrant basmati rice layered with tender spiced lamb, caramelized onions, raisins, and toasted almonds. This festive Iraqi biryani is a celebration dish bursting with warm spices and sweet-savory contrasts.
Nutrition & Info
Allergen Warnings
Equipment Needed
Instructions
-
1
Brown lamb cubes in oil over high heat for 8 minutes. Add one diced onion, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon sticks, baharat, and turmeric. Cook 3 minutes.
-
2
Add tomato paste and enough water to cover the meat. Simmer covered for 45 minutes until lamb is very tender. Remove meat, strain and reserve the broth.
-
3
Fry the remaining sliced onions in oil until deeply golden and caramelized, about 15 minutes. Remove half for garnish.
-
4
Parboil the soaked, drained rice in salted boiling water for 5 minutes until just barely tender. Drain well.
-
5
Layer in a heavy pot: half the rice, all the lamb and caramelized onions, raisins, then remaining rice. Pour saffron water and 1 cup reserved broth over the top.
-
6
Cover tightly, cook on lowest heat for 25 minutes. Flip onto a platter, garnish with fried onions, toasted almonds, and parsley.
Did You Know?
Iraqi biryani was influenced by Indian traders who brought their rice cooking techniques to Baghdad during the Abbasid golden age.
Chef's Notes
Equipment Tips
- large heavy pot with lid
- skillet
- saucepan
- serving platter
The Story Behind Biryani Iraqi
Iraqi biryani reflects the culinary exchange along ancient trade routes between Mesopotamia and the Indian subcontinent. During the Abbasid Caliphate, Baghdad was a cosmopolitan capital where spices, cooking techniques, and recipes from Persia, India, and Central Asia merged. Iraqi biryani developed its own identity with the use of baharat spice blend and local lamb, creating a distinctly Mesopotamian version of this beloved rice dish that remains the centerpiece of Iraqi celebrations.
Comments (0)
Log in to leave a comment.
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!