- August 12, 2025
Dindigul Biryani Recipe – Authentic South Indian Special
When we talk about biryani, India offers countless variations, each carrying its own identity. Among them, the Dindigul Biryani Recipe from Tamil Nadu holds a special place. Unlike the rich, layered biryanis from Hyderabad or Lucknow, the authentic Dindigul biryani is known for its tangy flavor, balanced spices, and unique preparation style.
The secret lies in the use of Seeraga Samba rice, freshly ground masalas, and the distinct cooking method. Whether it’s the Dindigul chicken biryani recipe or the Dindigul mutton biryani recipe, food lovers swear by its taste. The world-famous Dindigul Thalappakatti biryani recipe made this style even more popular. Let’s explore how to make this delicious traditional Dindigul biryani at home.

The Origin of Dindigul Biryani
The Dindigul biryani origin can be traced back to the small town of Dindigul in Tamil Nadu. More than 60 years ago, Nagasamy Naidu started the iconic Thalappakatti restaurant, which served this special style of biryani. Over time, the Dindigul Thalappakatti chicken biryani recipe became a household name across Tamil Nadu and beyond.
What makes it different is the tangy taste that comes from curd and lemon, combined with freshly ground Dindigul biryani masala powder. Unlike heavy biryanis rich in oil and ghee, Dindigul biryani at home feels lighter but equally flavorful.
Key Features of Dindigul Biryani
Rice: Uses Seeraga Samba rice, a short-grained aromatic variety that absorbs spices beautifully.
Masala: The Dindigul biryani masala includes roasted spices and pepper, giving a punch.
Tanginess: Unique sourness from curd and lemon makes it different from other biryanis.
Cooking Style: Unlike layered dum biryanis, this is more of a one-pot method, though Dindigul dum biryani recipe is also made in restaurants.
Ingredients for Dindigul Biryani
Here’s the list of Dindigul biryani ingredients (serves 5–6 people):
For Rice:
3 cups Seeraga Samba rice
6 cups water
2 tbsp ghee
2 bay leaves
Salt to taste
For Chicken Masala:
1 kg chicken (or mutton for Dindigul mutton biryani recipe)
3 large onions (sliced thin)
2 tomatoes (chopped)
1 cup thick curd
3–4 green chilies (slit)
2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
½ tsp turmeric powder
1 tbsp red chili powder
1 tbsp coriander powder
1 tsp garam masala powder
1 tsp black pepper powder
Juice of 1 lemon
½ cup mint leaves
½ cup coriander leaves
½ cup oil + 2 tbsp ghee
Salt as required
For Dindigul Biryani Masala Powder:
1 tbsp coriander seeds
1 tbsp black pepper
5–6 cloves
2 cardamoms
1 cinnamon stick
1 star anise
1 mace piece
1 tsp fennel seeds

Step-by-Step Dindigul Biryani Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Masala Powder
Dry roast all ingredients listed under Dindigul biryani masala powder until aromatic.
Grind into a fine powder and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Masala
Heat oil and ghee in a large pot.
Add sliced onions and fry until golden brown.
Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté till raw smell disappears.
Add tomatoes, green chilies, and cook until soft.
Add turmeric, chili, coriander powder, and the freshly ground Dindigul biryani masala.
Stir well, then add chicken pieces. Mix thoroughly.
Add yogurt, lemon juice, mint, and coriander leaves. Cook until chicken is 70% done.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
Wash and soak Seeraga Samba rice for 20 minutes.
Boil water with salt, bay leaves, and ghee.
Add rice and cook until 70% done. Drain and keep aside.
Step 4: Combine and Cook
Add half-cooked rice to the chicken masala.
Mix gently so rice absorbs the masala flavor.
Cover and cook on a low flame (dum) for 20 minutes, sealing edges with dough for authenticity.

Step 5: Serve Hot
Once done, fluff gently with a fork. Your authentic Dindigul biryani is ready to serve. Pair with onion raita, boiled egg, and brinjal curry for the full experience.

Variations of Dindigul Biryani
Dindigul Chicken Biryani Recipe – Most popular version, tangy and mildly spiced.
Dindigul Mutton Biryani Recipe – Rich, deep flavors perfect for festive meals.
Dindigul Thalappakatti Biryani Recipe – The iconic restaurant-style version.
Dindigul Seeraga Samba Biryani – Highlighting the unique rice variety.
Simple Dindigul Biryani Recipe – A quicker version with fewer steps for beginners.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Dindigul Biryani
Always use Seeraga Samba rice for authenticity.
Do not skip curd and lemon; they give the signature tang.
Use freshly ground Dindigul biryani masala powder for maximum flavor.
Dum cooking enhances the taste, but one-pot cooking works too.
Nutritional Value (Per Serving)
Calories: ~550 kcal
Protein: 28 g
Carbohydrates: 70 g
Fat: 20 g
Fiber: 3 g
This makes Dindigul biryani at home wholesome and filling.
Why Dindigul Biryani is Famous
The Dindigul biryani famous tag comes from its unique balance of spice and tanginess. The Dindigul biryani special flavor is unmatched, making it stand apart from other South Indian biryanis. From small eateries to five-star restaurants, the best Dindigul biryani recipe is celebrated everywhere.
FAQs About Dindigul Biryani
Q. Can I use basmati rice instead of Seeraga Samba?
A. It’s possible, but then it won’t be the Dindigul biryani authentic style.
Q. What protein works best?
A. Both chicken and mutton work beautifully; Dindigul chicken biryani Tamil style is most common.
Q. Can I make it vegetarian?
A. Yes, replace meat with vegetables or paneer for a simple Dindigul biryani recipe.
Q. Is it very spicy?
A. No, the traditional Dindigul biryani is moderately spiced but tangy.
Interesting Facts
The Dindigul biryani recipe is more than just food; it is the pride of Tamil Nadu’s culinary culture. Whether you try the Dindigul Thalappakatti chicken biryani recipe, the rich mutton version, or a Seeraga Samba special, every spoonful is packed with tradition and flavor.
So next time you crave biryani, skip the usual and prepare this authentic Dindigul biryani at home. Its step by step preparation is simple, and the taste will transport you straight to the streets of Dindigul.
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