Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Marinate Prawns

   In a bowl, combine 500g prawns with 1.5 tbsp red chilli paste, 1 tsp turmeric powder, and 0.5 tsp salt. Mix thoroughly to coat the prawns evenly and set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes.

2. 2.Fry Prawns

   Heat 1 tbsp ghee and 3 tbsp cooking oil in a pressure cooker over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated prawns and fry for 2-3 minutes until they turn light orange and are partially cooked. Do not overcook.

3. 3.Remove Prawns

   Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the fried prawns from the cooker and transfer them to a separate bowl. Set aside.

4. 4.Sauté Aromatics

   In the same cooker with the remaining oil, add 1 bay leaf, 1 star anise, 2-3 green cardamom pods, 4-5 cloves, and a 1-inch cinnamon stick. Sauté for 30 seconds until the spices become fragrant. Then, add 1 tbsp ginger garlic paste and sauté for 1 minute until its raw smell disappears.

5. 5.Add Onions and Tomatoes

   Add 2 medium sliced onions to the cooker and sauté until they turn translucent and light golden brown, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Next, add 2 medium chopped tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften and break down.

6. 6.Add Green Chilies and Coriander

   Stir in 3-4 slit green chilies and 0.25 cup chopped fresh coriander leaves. Mix well to combine with the sautéed vegetables.

7. 7.Add Powdered Spices and Coconut Paste

   Add 0.5 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp red chilli powder, 1 tbsp coriander powder, 1 tsp garam masala, and salt to taste. Mix all the spices thoroughly. Then, add 2 tbsp coconut paste (or yogurt) and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens and the oil starts to separate from the masala.

8. 8.Add Water and Rice

   Pour 2 cups of water into the cooker and bring it to a rolling boil. Carefully add 2 cups of washed and soaked basmati rice. Gently stir the rice to ensure it is evenly distributed in the spiced water.

9. 9.Pressure Cook Biryani

   Arrange the previously fried prawns on top of the rice layer. Close the pressure cooker lid and cook on medium heat for 2 whistles. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes.

10. 10.Rest and Fluff

    Once the pressure has naturally released from the cooker, open the lid. Gently fluff the Prawn Biryani with a fork to separate the rice grains and evenly distribute the prawns and masala.

11. 11.Serve

    Serve the hot and fragrant Prawn Biryani immediately. It pairs wonderfully with raita, fried snacks, or a simple salad.