Chana Biryani: A Nutritious and Flavorful Vegetarian Delight

News Desk

Islamabad: Chana Biryani is gaining popularity as a wholesome and protein-rich alternative to traditional biryani, especially among vegetarian food lovers.

Made with soft, flavorful chickpeas (chanay), aromatic spices, and fragrant rice, this dish is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious yet indulgent meal. Packed with protein, vitamins, and spices, it’s a great option for those aiming for a healthy diet without compromising on taste.

Ingredients for Boiled Chanay:

• 7-8 cups water

• 3 cups white chickpeas (safaid chanay)

Ingredients for Chana Masala:

• ½ cup oil

• 1 tbsp cumin seeds

• 2-3 black cardamoms

• 3-4 green cardamoms

• 8-10 cloves

• 2-3 cinnamon sticks

• 1 cup chopped onions

• 1 cup tomato puree

• 1 tbsp red chili powder

• 1 tbsp red chili flakes

• 1 tbsp coriander powder

• 1 tbsp salt

• 1 tsp cumin powder

• 1 cup yogurt

Boiled chanay

• 7-8 fried plums (optional)

• 3-4 tamarind pieces

Ingredients for Boiled Rice:

• 7-8 cups water

• 7-8 cloves

• 3-4 green cardamoms

• 2-3 star anise

• 1 tbsp salt

• 3 cups soaked rice

Ingredients for Assembling:

• Prepared chana masala

• Boiled rice

• Green coriander (as required)

• Lemon slices (as required)

• Green chilies (as required)

• ½ tsp yellow food color

• ½ tsp orange food color

• ½ tsp kewra water

Directions:

Boil the Chickpeas: In a pot, heat water and add chickpeas (chanay). Boil until 90% done and set aside.

Prepare the Chana Masala: Heat oil in a pot and add cumin seeds, black cardamom, green cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon sticks. Cook for a minute. Add onions and sauté until golden brown. Add tomato puree, red chili powder, red chili flakes, coriander powder, salt, and cumin powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes. Then add yogurt and cook until the oil separates.

Combine the Ingredients: Add the boiled chickpeas, fried plums, and tamarind. Cook for 5-10 minutes and set aside.

Boil the Rice: In another pot, bring water to a boil and add cloves, green cardamom, star anise, and salt. Add the soaked rice and boil until 80% done. Strain and set aside.

Assemble the Biryani: In a large pot, layer the prepared chana masala and boiled rice. Garnish with green coriander, lemon slices, and green chilies. Top with yellow and orange food color, and drizzle with kewra water.

Steam: Cover and steam on low flame for 10-12 minutes until fully cooked and fragrant.

Final Thoughts: This Chana Biryani is not only a satisfying and hearty meal but also a healthy choice, offering a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and flavors. Perfect for a family dinner or a festive occasion, it’s a must-try for all biryani lovers.