Biryani is thought to have originated in Persia and brought to South Asia by Persian merchants. It might be known in different names across the world – ‘kabsa’, ‘majboos’, ‘mandi’, but there’s no doubt that biryani is the king of dishes (and the dish of kings) across the Middle East and South Asia. No feast is complete without this sumptuous dish, whether it is eaten alone, or with pickles and curd. That’s why this month Tempo takes you on a biryani tour about town.
Where: Lazeez, Indian Cuisine
What: Noorjahan Biryani
Build: Fresh minced meat biryani cooked with aromatic basmati rice.
Comment: Noorjahan Biryani is one of Lazeez’ signature Biryanis and once you’ve tasted it you’ll know why. The biryani pot comes sealed in a roti, and with a slit of the bread, the incredible aroma is released! The dish comes with tiny meatballs that are a refreshing accompaniment not usual in biryanis. The masala was spot on and the rice cooked perfectly. Although the blend of rice with masala didn’t combine quite as smoothly as it should have, it was in no way a deal breaker.
Recommendation: Lazeez has over 25 varieties of biryanis.
Rating: 3.5 stars
Where: Student Biryani, Pakistani Cuisine
What: Chicken Biryani
Build: Rice cooked with biryani spices and succulent chicken pieces.
Comment: This is Pakistani biryani at its best. The flavours are simple, and very well blended. Sometimes it is always the simpler fare that is the tastiest. Succulent chicken pieces are well cooked and marinated in the perfect amount of masala. This biryani delivers honest to goodness flavours that you won’t forget.
Recommendation: Despite the very unusual name, this restaurant adds greatvalue to the city’s culinary diversity.
Rating: 4 stars
Where: King Mindi, Middle Eastern Cuisine
What: Bethlehem Mindi
Build: Basmati Rice cooked with mild spices and meat.
Comment: One of the greatest accomplishments of a chef is meat that is cooked to absolute perfection, on an unforgettable bed of rice. This entire dish is by far the best in the category; the rice and meat melt in your mouth and the aroma, taste and feel of this dish will have you coming back for more.
Recommendation: The quantities of their dishes are huge. One dish can easily satisfy three people.
Rating: 4.5 stars
By Diji Shujahi
