Embracing the Past, Crafting the Future: The Story of Chicken Manchurian Biryani
Chinese food is an emotion and often a delicacy among the Indians. Chinese food in India is easily noticeable with its red, spicy, and greasy look, frequently served with noodles or rice. This fusion category is called Indo-Chinese and is heavily influenced by Indian dietary preferences and Chinese cuisines. The history of Indo-Chinese cuisine in India can be traced back to immigrants from China to Kolkata. During the 19th century, these immigrants introduced ‘Hakka’ dishes whose tastes changed over time to suit the Indian palette. Since the last decades of the 20th century, this delectable and interesting cuisine has been available widely on Indian streets, and restaurants.
Indo-Chinese cuisine represents a food culture that presents a texture and appearance similar to that of Chinese food. With a touch of Indian masala, ingredients, a blend of soya sauce, red chili sauce, ginger, and garlic, this cuisine has attained an unparalleled craze among the Indians. What makes this delectable cuisine is its easy adaptability with other cuisine, captivating various food enthusiasts all across the world. Indian food culture is dynamic and it has attracted various remarkable fusions. Chicken Manchurian biryani is one such example that showcases a remarkable integration of Mughlai cuisine with that of Indo-Chinese.
To create a unique restaurant or CGF Café Golden Feast-styled, Chicken Manchurian Biryani for a perfect party celebration, follow the recipe.
Ingredients
For Biryani Rice
– Properly drained and washed basmati rice, soaked in water for 30 minutes
– Thinly sliced onions
– Slit green chillis
– Cloves, cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, bay leaves, cumin seeds
– Oil and ghee
– Saffron soaked in warm milk
– Salt and sugar to taste
For preparing Chicken Manchurian
– Boneless chicken cut into bite-sized chunks
– Finely chopped onions
– Green chilies finely chopped
– Ginger and garlic finely chopped
– Properly diced capsicum
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of chili sauce, tomato ketchup, vinegar, and cornflour
– Oil
– Coriander to garnish
The preparation of the dish is divided into the following segments-
Preparation of Chicken Manchurian
– Marinate chicken chunks with chili sauce, tomato ketchup, soy sauce, vinegar, cornflour, and, salt and a pinch of sugar. Let it set for around 20 minutes.
– Over a heated pan, add oil and then sauté ginger, garlic, green chillis and onions till a translucent look appears.
– Add the marinated chicken chunks and bell pepper to the oil. Fry the chicken thoroughly.
– As per tastes add the seasonings and garnish the same with fresh coriander leaves.
Preparation of the Biryani Rice
– Cook the basmati rice until it is 70 to 80% done, then drain the extra water and set it aside.
– In another pan, add ghee keeping the heat medium. Add bay leaf, cumin seeds, cloves, slit chillis, cardamom, and cinnamon. Then add thinly sliced onions and fry till golden brown.
– To the mix, add the partially cooked rice and coated properly with the rice.
– Pour the saffron infused milk over the rice and give quick yet gentle mix and let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes over a low flame.
Assembling Chicken Manchurian Biryani
– Now evenly layer cooked Manchurian over the layers of rice, and then again repeat the process.
– Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and fried onions and remaining saffron-infused milk.
– Cover the preparation and let the flavors mix.
– Serve the dish along with some mixed yogurt.
Bon Appetite!
F&Qs:
- What ingredients are needed for Chicken Manchurian Biryani?
- The ingredients typically include chicken pieces, rice (usually basmati), assorted vegetables for the Manchurian sauce, soy sauce, chili sauce, garlic, ginger, onions, and a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala.
- Can I use any other meat besides chicken?
- Yes, you can substitute chicken with other meats like lamb, beef, or shrimp to make variations of this dish.
- Is Chicken Manchurian Biryani spicy?
- The spiciness level of Chicken Manchurian Biryani can be adjusted according to personal preference. Typically, it has a moderate level of spice, but you can increase or decrease the amount of chili sauce or fresh chilies to suit your taste.
- Can I make Chicken Manchurian Biryani vegetarian?
- Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this dish by replacing the chicken with tofu or mixed vegetables and adjusting the sauce accordingly.
- What can I serve with Chicken Manchurian Biryani?
- Chicken Manchurian Biryani pairs well with accompaniments like raita (yogurt dip), sliced cucumbers, onions, and a side of spicy chili sauce for those who prefer extra heat.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Leftover Chicken Manchurian Biryani can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
- Can I freeze Chicken Manchurian Biryani?
- Yes, you can freeze Chicken Manchurian Biryani in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Is Chicken Manchurian Biryani a healthy dish?
- Chicken Manchurian Biryani is a flavorful and satisfying dish, but it may not be considered a health food due to the frying involved in making the Manchurian chicken and the use of rice. However, you can make healthier modifications by using lean cuts of chicken, brown rice, and reducing the amount of oil and sauces used in cooking.
