Beary Biryani Recipe – The Coastal Mangalore Muslim Specialty

Beary Biryani is a fragrant, mildly spiced, and flavorful biryani from the Beary Muslim community of coastal Karnataka, especially Mangalore and Udupi. Unlike other Indian biryanis, Beary Biryani is lighter on spices, uses short-grain rice (Jeerakasala or Kaima), and is cooked with coconut-based masalas that give it a distinct coastal touch.

This biryani is perfect for those who love subtle flavors with a hint of sweetness from caramelized onions and coconut milk. Whether it’s Beary Chicken Biryani, Beary Mutton Biryani, or Beary Fish Biryani, the preparation method stays similar — making it a unique South Indian coastal biryani loved across Karnataka.

🛒 Ingredients for Authentic Beary Chicken Biryani (Serves 5–6)

For the Chicken Marinade

• Chicken (bone-in) – 1 kg

• Yogurt – 1 cup

• Ginger-garlic paste – 2 tbsp

• Green chili paste – 1 tsp

• Turmeric powder – ½ tsp

• Salt – 1 tsp

• Lemon juice – 2 tbsp

For the Biryani Masala

• Oil – 5 tbsp

• Ghee – 3 tbsp

• Onions – 4 large (thinly sliced)

• Green chilies – 6–7 (slit)

• Tomatoes – 3 medium (chopped)

• Fresh coriander leaves – 1 cup (chopped)

• Fresh mint leaves – 1 cup (chopped)

• Coconut milk – 1 cup (thick)

Whole Spices

• Bay leaves – 2

• Cloves – 6

• Cardamom – 4 pods

• Cinnamon – 2-inch stick

• Star anise – 1

• Black peppercorns – 8

• Mace – 1 small strand

For the Rice

• Jeerakasala (Kaima) rice – 4 cups

• Water – as required

• Salt – 1 tbsp

🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1 – Marinate the Chicken

1. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, green chili paste, turmeric powder, salt, and lemon juice.

2. Mix well, cover, and let it marinate for at least 1 hour for tender and flavorful chicken.

Step 2 – Prepare the Rice

1. Wash the Jeerakasala rice 2–3 times until water runs clear.

2. Soak for 20–30 minutes.

3. In a large pot, boil water with salt, then add the soaked rice.

4. Cook until the rice is 70% done, drain, and set aside.

Step 3 – Make the Biryani Masala

1. Heat oil and ghee in a large biryani pot.

2. Add bay leaves, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, star anise, black peppercorns, and mace. Sauté until fragrant.

3. Add sliced onions and fry until light golden brown.

4. Add green chilies and tomatoes, cooking until soft.

5. Add the marinated chicken and cook on medium heat until the chicken is tender and coated in spices.

6. Pour in coconut milk and mix well, allowing the flavors to blend.

Step 4 – Layer the Biryani

1. Spread half of the rice over the chicken masala.

2. Sprinkle half of the chopped mint and coriander leaves.

3. Add the remaining rice and top with the rest of the herbs.

Step 5 – Dum Cooking

1. Cover the pot tightly with a lid or seal it with dough to trap the steam.

2. Cook on the lowest flame for 20–25 minutes.

3. Switch off the heat and let it rest for 10 minutes before opening.

🥗 Serving Suggestions

• Serve Beary Biryani hot with cucumber-onion raita and lemon wedges.

• For a more authentic touch, serve with a side of chicken curry or boiled eggs.

📊 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – approx.)

💡 Tips for Perfect Beary Biryani

• Rice Choice: Always use Jeerakasala or Kaima rice for authentic flavor.

• Coconut Milk: Freshly extracted coconut milk enhances taste.

• Marination Time: Longer marination means juicier and more flavorful chicken.

• Meat Variations: You can make Beary Mutton Biryani or even Beary Fish Biryani using the same method.

📍 Location & Origin

• Cuisine: Coastal Karnataka – South Indian Cuisine

• Place of Origin: Mangalore & Udupi, Karnataka

• Cultural Significance:
  The Beary community, one of the oldest Muslim trading communities in coastal Karnataka, developed this biryani style influenced by Arab traders and local Mangalorean flavors. The use of coconut milk, fresh herbs, and light spices makes this biryani stand out. Traditionally, it is served during weddings, Eid celebrations, and festive occasions.

Interesting Facts :-
This Authentic Beary Biryani Recipe beautifully blends South Indian coastal ingredients with the elegance of traditional biryani cooking. The light spices, fresh coconut milk, and fragrant short-grain rice make it a must-try dish for biryani lovers who enjoy mild yet aromatic flavors. Whether you are in Mangalore, Udupi, or anywhere in the world, cooking Beary Biryani at home brings the taste of coastal Karnataka right to your plate.