AMBUR DUM BRIYANI

 **Ambur Dum Biryani**

          It is a famous dish from the town of Ambur in Tamil Nadu. It has a unique flavor and preparation method that sets it apart from other biryani.

. Here’s how to make Ambur Dum Biryani:

### Ingredients:

- Chicken or Mutton - 500 grams

- Basmati rice - 2 cups

- Onions - 3 (sliced)

- Tomatoes - 2 (chopped)

- Green chilies - 4 (slit lengthwise)

- Ginger-garlic paste - 2 teaspoons

- Red chili powder - 1 1/2 teaspoons

- Turmeric powder - 1/2 teaspoon

- Fresh coriander leaves - a handful

- Fresh mint leaves - a handful

- Yogurt - 1/2 cup

- Lemon juice - 1 teaspoon

- Salt - to taste

- Oil - 4 tablespoons

- Water - 4 cups

### Preparation:

1. First, clean the chicken or mutton pieces and cut them into large chunks.

2. Heat oil in a large pan or pot.

3. Add sliced onions and green chilies and sauté until the onions turn golden brown.

4. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté until the raw smell disappears.

5. Add chopped tomatoes, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt, and cook until the tomatoes are soft and oil separates.

6. Now, add the chicken or mutton pieces and cook for a few minutes until they are lightly browned.

7. Add yogurt, mint leaves, and coriander leaves, and mix well.

8. Add 4 cups of water and bring it to a boil. Lower the heat and cover the pan. Cook until the meat is tender.

9. Once the meat is cooked, add the soaked basmati rice (soak the rice for 30 minutes beforehand) to the pot and mix gently.

10. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, reduce the heat to low, and allow the biryani to cook on dum (steam) until the rice is fully cooked.

11. Once the rice is done, remove the pot from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes.

12. Gently fluff the biryani with a fork and garnish with fresh mint leaves or lemon wedges before serving.

### Special Tips:

- Soak the basmati rice in water for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.

- For a richer flavor, you can add a bit of ghee (clarified butter) while cooking the meat.

This is how you prepare the flavorful and aromatic Ambur Dum Biryani. Enjoy your meal!