Sindhi Biryani Recipe – Spicy & Flavorful Pakistani Style

Sindhi Biryani is one of the most famous and aromatic biryani varieties from Pakistan, loved for its spicy, tangy, and fragrant flavors. Originating from Sindh province, this biryani combines basmati rice, tender marinated meat, fried onions, yogurt, tomatoes, and a unique blend of spices. The addition of green chilies, sour yogurt, and fresh coriander gives Sindhi Biryani its signature hot and tangy taste.

In this recipe, we’ll prepare authentic Sindhi Mutton Biryani using traditional Pakistani cooking methods so you can recreate the same flavors at home.

🛒 Ingredients for Sindhi Mutton Biryani

(Serves 4–5 people)

For the Mutton Marinade

• Mutton (goat meat, bone-in) – 500g

• Thick yogurt – 1 cup

• Ginger-garlic paste – 2 tbsp

• Red chili powder – 1½ tsp

• Turmeric powder – ½ tsp

• Coriander powder – 1 tsp

• Cumin powder – ½ tsp

• Salt – to taste

For the Biryani Masala & Gravy

• Cooking oil – 4 tbsp

• Large onions – 3 (thinly sliced)

• Tomatoes – 3 (chopped)

• Green chilies – 4–5 (slit)

• Fresh coriander leaves – ½ cup (chopped)

• Fresh mint leaves – ½ cup (chopped)

• Whole spices:

  • Bay leaves – 2

  • Green cardamom – 4

  • Cloves – 4

  • Cinnamon stick – 1-inch

  • Black cardamom – 1

  • Black peppercorns – 6–8

  • Star anise – 1 (optional)

For the Rice

• Aged basmati rice – 2 cups

• Water – as needed for boiling

• Salt – 1 tbsp

For Layering & Dum

• Fried onions (birista) – 1 cup

• Saffron strands – 10–12 (soaked in ¼ cup warm milk)

• Ghee – 3 tbsp

• Lemon juice – 2 tbsp

🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Marinate the Mutton

1. Wash and pat dry the mutton pieces.

2. In a large bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt.

3. Coat the mutton evenly with the marinade.

4. Cover and refrigerate for 2–3 hours (overnight is ideal for best flavor).

Step 2 – Cook the Rice

1. Wash basmati rice 3–4 times until water runs clear. Soak for 30 minutes.

2. Boil water in a large pot, adding salt.

3. Add soaked rice and cook until 70% done.

4. Drain and set aside.

Step 3 – Prepare the Biryani Masala

1. Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed handi (deep pot).

2. Add sliced onions and fry until golden brown. Remove half for later layering.

3. Add whole spices (bay leaves, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, black cardamom, peppercorns, star anise) and sauté for 30 seconds.

4. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft.

5. Add marinated mutton and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Add green chilies, mint, and coriander leaves.

7. Add ½ cup water, cover, and cook until mutton is 80% tender and gravy is thick.

Step 4 – Layer the Biryani

1. Spread half of the mutton gravy at the base of the handi.

2. Layer with half of the cooked rice.

3. Sprinkle half of the fried onions, saffron milk, ghee, and lemon juice.

4. Repeat with the remaining mutton, rice, and toppings.

Step 5 – Dum Cooking

1. Cover the handi with a tight lid.

2. Seal the edges with wheat dough to trap steam (optional but authentic).

3. Place the handi on a tawa and cook on low heat for 25–30 minutes.

4. Rest for 10 minutes before opening.

Step 6 – Serve the Sindhi Biryani

• Gently mix the layers without breaking the rice grains.

• Serve hot with raita, salad, and pickle for an authentic Pakistani dining experience.

🥗 Serving Suggestions

• Accompaniments: Boondi raita, onion salad, achar (pickle), papad.

• Occasions: Eid feasts, weddings, family gatherings, or weekend special meals.

📊 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – approx.)

💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Sindhi Biryani

• Use extra green chilies for authentic spiciness.

• Slight tanginess from yogurt and tomatoes is a must — don’t skip either.

• Always use aged basmati rice for long grains and non-sticky texture.

• Add a handful of fried potatoes for variation (some Sindhi families do this).

📍 Location & Origin

• Cuisine: Sindhi Cuisine

• Region of Origin: Sindh Province – Known for bold spices, tangy flavors, and rich cooking traditions.

• Cultural Significance: Sindhi Biryani is often served on special occasions, weddings, and Eid celebrations. It is more spicy and tangy than other biryani types, making it unique among South Asian rice dishes.

Interesting Facts :-
This authentic Sindhi Biryani recipe is a bold and flavorful dish that reflects the rich culinary traditions of Sindh cuisine. Its spicy, tangy taste, aromatic rice, and tender meat make it a favorite not just in Pakistan but across the globe.