- August 12, 2025
Ambur Biryani Recipe – The Legendary Tamil Nadu Special
When we talk about the royal biryanis of South India, the Ambur Biryani Recipe always comes up. Famous for its simplicity, balance of spices, and subtle aroma, Ambur biryani originated in the small town of Ambur in Tamil Nadu. Unlike the heavy masala-laden biryanis of Hyderabad or Lucknow, the authentic Ambur biryani is known for its mild spicing, short-grain rice, and the deliciously tangy flavor imparted by curd and dried chilies.
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the Ambur biryani origin, explore its cultural significance, list the Ambur biryani ingredients, and provide a complete Ambur biryani preparation step by step so that you can easily make Ambur biryani at home. Whether you’re looking for Ambur chicken biryani recipe, Ambur mutton biryani recipe, or even the famous Ambur Star biryani recipe, this article has everything you need.
The Origin of Ambur Biryani
The traditional Ambur biryani recipe dates back to the Nawabs of Arcot, who ruled parts of Tamil Nadu. Their chefs perfected this style of biryani, which later spread across the Vellore and Ambur regions. Today, Ambur town is globally famous for its biryani, thanks to outlets like Star Biryani that continue to preserve its legacy.
The Ambur biryani Tamil Nadu style differs from others because it uses seeraga samba rice (a short-grain aromatic rice) instead of long-grain basmati. This rice absorbs the flavors of the Ambur biryani masala beautifully, making every bite rich and flavorful.
Types of Ambur Biryani
Ambur biryani has multiple versions, each equally delightful:
Ambur Chicken Biryani Recipe – The most popular and widely cooked variation.
Ambur Mutton Biryani Recipe – A festive version with tender mutton, perfect for special occasions.
Ambur Star Biryani Recipe – The restaurant-style version that has made Ambur famous worldwide.
Egg or vegetarian versions are also prepared, though the traditional focus remains on meat-based biryanis.
Ambur Biryani Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Ambur biryani at home:
For the Rice
2 cups seeraga samba rice (Ambur biryani rice)
5 cups water
1 bay leaf
2 cloves
2 green cardamoms
1-inch cinnamon stick
1 tsp salt
For the Masala (Ambur Biryani Masala)
500 g chicken or mutton (adjust for the version you’re cooking)
2 large onions, thinly sliced
3 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
8–10 dried red chilies (soaked and ground into a paste)
½ cup thick curd (yogurt)
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp coriander powder
½ tsp garam masala powder
Salt to taste
4 tbsp oil or ghee
For Garnishing and Layering
Fresh mint leaves, chopped
Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
1 tbsp lemon juice
Fried onions (optional)
How to Make Ambur Biryani – Step by Step
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Rinse the seeraga samba rice well and soak it for 20 minutes.
Boil water with bay leaf, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and salt. Add the soaked rice and cook until 70% done. Drain and set aside. This ensures the rice doesn’t overcook when we follow the Ambur dum biryani recipe.
Step 2: Prepare the Ambur Biryani Masala
Heat oil or ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
Now add the red chili paste and sauté for a few minutes until oil separates. This paste is what gives Ambur biryani style its unique fiery yet balanced flavor.
Add chicken or mutton pieces, followed by turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well. Add curd and cook on low heat until the meat absorbs all flavors. For mutton, pressure cook until tender.
This forms the delicious Ambur biryani masala that sets it apart from other biryanis.
Step 3: Layering the Biryani
In a heavy-bottomed vessel, start layering:
Spread a portion of the masala with meat.
Add a layer of half-cooked rice.
Sprinkle fresh mint, coriander leaves, and lemon juice.
Repeat the process, finishing with rice on top.
Step 4: Dum Cooking Method
Seal the pot with a tight lid or dough to trap steam. Place it on low heat for 20–25 minutes. This Ambur biryani cooking method ensures the flavors penetrate the rice evenly.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Allow the biryani to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Fluff up the layers gently and enjoy the Ambur biryani special with onion raita or brinjal curry.
Tips for Perfect Ambur Biryani Preparation
Always use seeraga samba rice for authenticity.
The red chili paste is the heart of this dish – avoid substituting with chili powder.
Use curd generously, as it adds tanginess and softness to the meat.
For the Ambur mutton biryani recipe, ensure the meat is tender before layering with rice.
Cooking on dum is essential to retain the authentic flavors of the traditional Ambur biryani recipe.
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Why Ambur Biryani is Special
The authentic Ambur biryani doesn’t rely on too many spices. Instead, it highlights the natural flavors of meat, curd, and red chilies. The Ambur biryani Tamil Nadu style is lighter than other biryanis but still deeply satisfying.
The simplicity of the Ambur biryani preparation has made it famous not just across South India but internationally. The Ambur Star biryani recipe is a living legacy of this town, drawing thousands of visitors every year.
Serving Suggestions
Onion raita (essential for balancing the heat).
Brinjal curry (a traditional Tamil Nadu pairing).
Hard-boiled eggs or fried papad for added richness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is Ambur Biryani very spicy?
The heat comes from dried red chilies, but it’s balanced by curd, making it moderately spicy.
Q2: Can I make Ambur Biryani without seeraga samba rice?
Yes, but for the authentic Ambur biryani, seeraga samba rice is strongly recommended.
Q3: What is the difference between Ambur Biryani and Dindigul Biryani?
While both are Tamil Nadu specialties, Ambur biryani origin is linked to Nawabs of Arcot and uses chili paste, while Dindigul uses pepper and lemon juice.
Q4: How to make Ambur Biryani in pressure cooker?
You can cook the meat masala in a pressure cooker, but dum cooking is essential for the real Ambur biryani style.
Q5: Which is more famous – Chicken or Mutton Ambur Biryani?
Both versions are popular, but the Ambur chicken biryani recipe is more commonly made at home, while the Ambur mutton biryani recipe is served at weddings and celebrations.
Interesting Facts
The Ambur Biryani Recipe is more than just food – it’s a story of heritage, culture, and culinary finesse. Whether you choose the Ambur chicken biryani recipe, the Ambur mutton biryani recipe, or the legendary Ambur Star biryani recipe, each plate tells the tale of Tamil Nadu’s Nawabi traditions.
If you’ve ever wondered how to make Ambur biryani, this guide gives you everything – from Ambur biryani ingredients to the dum biryani cooking method. Try it once, and the traditional Ambur biryani recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
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