The Jackfruit Biryani Phenomenon: Why Everyone is Talking About This Dish at Niraamaya

Imagine taking a bite of a dish that is so delicious, you can't help but close your eyes and savour every moment. A dish that is not only mouth-watering but also healthy, leaving you feeling good about what you're eating. That's exactly what you'll experience when you try the Jackfruit Biryani at Niraamaya Wellness Retreats.

Jackfruit, a fruit that has been used for centuries in South Indian cuisine, is the star ingredient in this dish. Known for its distinct flavour and meat-like texture, jackfruit has become a popular meat substitute among health-conscious individuals. And at Niraamaya, we've taken this versatile fruit and turned it into a masterpiece.
 

The Jackfruit Biryani at Niraamaya is a dish that combines fragrant basmati rice, an array of spices, herbs, and vegetables, and a generous serving of jackfruit. The aroma of the biryani alone is enough to make your mouth water. But what makes this dish truly outstanding is the texture of the jackfruit. When cooked, jackfruit takes on a chewy and meat-like texture, making it an excellent meat substitute. And in this dish, the jackfruit pairs perfectly with the fragrant rice and spices, creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors.

Aside from its delicious taste and texture, jackfruit is also packed with nutrients. It is low in calories, high in fibre, and rich in vitamins A and C, making it an ideal ingredient for weight loss and maintaining a healthy immune system. Additionally, jackfruit is a good source of potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and improve heart health.
 

Here’s how you can make the recipe in your own kitchen:

Method

Marination:

1. In a large bowl, take 1 cup of curd.
2. Add 1 tsp. of ginger garlic paste, ¼ tsp. of turmeric powder, 1 tsp. of chilli powder, 1 tsp. of biryani masala, and ½ tsp. of salt. Mix well.
3. Add 2 tsp. of lemon juice, 2 tsp. of oil, 3 tbsp. of chopped coriander leaves, and 3 tbsp. of chopped mint leaves. Mix well.
4. Add 12 pieces of raw jackfruit and 2 tbsp. of fried onions. Mix well to coat the jackfruit with the mixture.
5. Cover and rest for 30 minutes, making sure it is well-marinated.

1. In a large vessel, take enough water and add ½ tsp. of cumin seeds, 2 star anise, 2 bay leaves, 1 tsp. of black peppercorns, ½ tsp. of cloves, and 4 cardamom pods.
2. Also, add 2 tsp. of lemon juice, 2 green chillies, and 1 tbsp. of salt. Mix well and bring to a rolling boil.
3. Drain the soaked basmati rice and add it to the boiling water. Give it a mix.
4. Boil for 15 minutes or until the rice is almost cooked.
5. Drain the rice and set aside.

1. In a large bottom thick pan, heat 2 tbsp. ghee and 2 tbsp. oil.
2. Add 1 bay leaf, 1 inch cinnamon, 1 black cardamom, ½ tsp. cloves, 4 cardamoms, 1 star anise, and 1 tsp. cumin.
3. Sauté until the spices turn aromatic.
4. Add 2 finely chopped onions and 1 tsp. ginger garlic paste and sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
5. Now add the marinated jackfruits and cook for 2 minutes.
6. Cover and cook for 10 minutes or until the jackfruits are almost cooked.
7. Spread the jackfruits uniformly forming a nice layer.
8. Add in almost cooked basmati rice and spread uniformly.
9. Also, top with 2 tbsp. saffron milk, 2 tbsp. chopped coriander, 2 tbsp. chopped mint, 1 tsp. biryani masala, and 2 tbsp. ghee.
10. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Seal the lid to prevent steam from escaping.
11. Open the lid and enjoy Jack Fruit Biryani with raita, pappad, and pickle.