What is Ulavacharu Biryani?

Ulavacharu Biryani is a popular dish from the South Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It is a type of biryani that is made with a unique blend of spices and herbs, including ulavacharu (horsegram soup), which gives the dish its distinctive flavour. The biryani is typically made with basmati rice, vegetables, and/or meat, and is often served with raita (a yoghurt-based side dish) and papadums (thin, crispy Indian crackers). Ulavacharu Biryani has become a popular dish in many parts of India and is also gaining popularity in other countries.

Here’s a recipe for Ulavacharu Biryani:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1 cup ulavacharu (horsegram soup)
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 potato, chopped
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, beans, cauliflower, etc.)
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 2 green chillies, chopped
• 1 tsp red chilli powder
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp garam masala powder
• 2 tbsp oil
• Salt to taste
• Coriander leaves for garnishing

For the biryani masala:

• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 cloves
• 2 cardamom pods
• 1 bay leaf

Instructions:

1. Soak the basmati rice in water for 30 minutes.
2. In a pan, heat oil and add the biryani masala ingredients. Fry for a minute.
3. Add sliced onions, and green chillies and fry till the onions become golden brown.
4. Add ginger-garlic paste and fry for a minute.
5. Add chopped tomato and fry till it becomes soft.
6. Add chopped vegetables, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, garam masala powder and salt. Mix well and fry for 2-3 minutes.
7. Add ulavacharu and 1.5 cups of water. Mix well and bring to a boil.
8. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the boiling mixture. Mix well and cover the pan with a lid.
9. Cook on low flame for 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water has evaporated.
10. Once the biryani is cooked, switch off the flame and let it sit for 5 minutes.
11. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot with raita and papadums.

Enjoy your delicious Ulavacharu Biryani!