Donne Biryani

Donne biryani is a classic mutton biryani recipe from Bangalore that’s a perfect combination of tender meat, fragrant rice, and aromatic spices. It’s a one-pot dish that’s not only easy to make but is also a satisfying and hearty meal that the whole family will love.

this recipe

If you are looking for a unique way to serve your biryani, then this recipe is for you. Donne biryani is a traditional biryani variety that is served in large dried palm leaf cups called ‘Donne’. The word Donne literally translates to a large dried plate or cup, which is an essential element of this biryani.

If you’re a fan of this donne biryani with mutton, you should definitely try my lamb biryani also. And if you prefer chicken, then my Hyderabadi chicken biryani could be your next favorite.

❤️ WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE

• Easy to Make: This recipe, despite its authentic flavors, is surprisingly easy to make. The steps are simple and straightforward, perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a convenient yet delicious meal.
• Aromatic and Satisfying: The homemade blend of spices and herbs infuses the dish with the most satisfying aroma. Plus, the tender mutton and flavorful rice make it a truly fulfilling meal.
• Authentic: This recipe stays true to the traditional method of preparing Donne biryani. The use of classic ingredients and cooking techniques guarantees an authentic dining experience.
• Quick: Despite being a seemingly elaborate dish, this biryani can be prepared relatively quickly. It’s a great option for those times when you want a hearty meal but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
• Hearty: With tender mutton, fragrant rice, and a rich blend of spices, this biryani is a hearty meal that is both comforting and satisfying.

🍊 INGREDIENTS

More details about the ingredients and measurements are in the recipe card below!

• Mutton: The protein of choice. In this recipe, mutton is the star of the show, bringing its unique flavor and texture to the dish.
• Lemon Juice: Adds a tangy flavor to the mutton while also helping to tenderize it, making it easier to chew.
• Spices: This recipe is rich in spices such as turmeric, cumin, coriander powder, curry powder, dry fenugreek powder, etc. Combined, they add an authentic flavor that you will fall in love with.
• Basmati Rice: Traditionally Jeera rice is used, but I’ve used long-grain basmati rice in this recipe to make it easier for my readers from around the world to have it.

🔪 HOW TO MAKE DONNE BIRYANI

Step 1

Marinating the Meat: In a large bowl, add the meat and the marination ingredients. Rub the meat with the ingredients well and then cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour.

Step 2

Making the Masala Mix: In a large pan, add the ghee and oil, when hot add the cumin seeds and onion. When the onion is translucent add the masala mix ingredients except the coriander leaves. Later add the coriander leaves, cook until they wilt. 

Step 3

Blend the Masala Mix: Turn off the heat and when the masala mix is warm, place it in a blender, add the mint and fenugreek dry leaves powder and 3 tablespoons of water. Blend until smooth. Keep aside.

Step 4

Cook the Meat: In the large pan you have fried the masala mix, and to the remaining oil and ghee, add the marinated meat and fry until you see brown patches on the meat and the water evaporates.

Step 5

Add Blended Masala to Meat: Add the blended masala mix to the meat and keep stirring on medium heat until some of the oil comes to the surface.

Step 6

Add Boiling Water and Rice: Add three and a half cup boiling water to the meat, when it comes to a boil, add salt to the drained basmati rice. Mix for a few seconds and let it come to a boil again.

Step 7

Add Boiled Eggs: Cover the pan tightly to prevent the steam from escaping, turn the heat to the lowest and cook for 8 minutes, uncover the pan and add the boiled eggs. Cover and cook for 11 minutes.

Step 8

Fluff and Serve: Uncover the pan, fluff the rice and serve. Enjoy your delicious Donne biryani!

👩🏽‍🍳 PRO TIPS

• Opt for Jeera Rice: The authentic donne biryani recipe calls for Jeera Rice, an Indian short grain rice. However, I have used basmati for the convenience of my readers.
• Soak the Rice: Basmati rice should be washed until the water runs clear and then soaked for 20 to 30 minutes, unless otherwise instructed on the package. This helps to achieve fluffy, separated grains in your biryani.
• Swap Fresh for Dry: In the authentic recipe, fresh mint and fenugreek leaves are used. However, I have replaced these with dry leaf powders for the convenience of my readers. Believe me, the flavor stays the same as the original, and this saves you time and effort while guaranteeing authentic flavor.
• Opt for Lemon Juice: Instead of using yogurt as per the original recipe, I have replaced it with lemon juice in the marinade to make the meat tender faster and give a better flavor to the dish.
• Skip the Boiled Eggs: You can skip the boiled eggs if you prefer, but many people feel that it adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
• Adjust for Different Meats: If you wish to use beef instead of mutton, the cooking time will be longer, approximately 15 minutes extra. For chicken, it will be shorter, and you’ll need to adjust the spiciness according to your preference.

📋 VARIATIONS

• Spicier: If you’re a fan of heat, this variation is for you. Increase the number of green chilies in your masala mix or leave the seeds in for an extra kick. You can also add a teaspoon of red chili powder to the marinade for some additional spiciness. 
• Chicken: If you prefer chicken over mutton, this variation is worth a try. Substitute mutton with an equal amount of chicken pieces. The cooking time will be shorter than mutton, so make sure the chicken is tender and cooked through. 
• Vegetarian: For those who love their veggies, you can make a delicious vegetarian version of this biryani. Replace the mutton with your favorite vegetables like carrots, peas, and potatoes. You can also add paneer for some extra protein.

🍽️ HOW TO SERVE

• For a hearty, classic meal, serve the Donne biryani with a side of raita and some papadum. The cool, creamy raita balances the spiciness of the biryani, while the crunchy papadum adds a satisfying texture.
• If you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing accompaniment, try serving the Donne biryani with a side of cucumber and mint salad. The crispness of the cucumber and the fresh, cool flavor of the mint perfectly complement the rich and spicy biryani.
• For a special feast, pair the Donne biryani with a variety of condiments like mango chutney, lime pickle, and onion salad. This allows your guests to customize their biryani according to their own tastes.
• If you want to keep it simple, the Donne biryani is a complete meal on its own. Just serve it with some crispy papadum on the side for that extra crunch.

💬 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

🌡️ STORING

• Refrigerating: Leftover donne biryani can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools down to room temperature within 2 hours of cooking, then promptly refrigerate it.
• Freezing: While biryani can be frozen, the texture of the rice may change upon thaw and reheat. If you still want to freeze it, divide the biryani into meal-sized portions and place them in freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: Frozen donne biryani can thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat: Donne biryani can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.

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⭐ PLEASE RATE AND REVIEW

If you have tried this recipe and liked it, please give it a 5-star rating and leave a comment below with your experience!