Prawn Biryani – A Step-by-Step Recipe

Prawn Biryani is a delicious and flavourful dish that combines fragrant basmati rice with succulent prawns and aromatic spices. This one-pot meal is perfect for seafood lovers and can be made at home with simple ingredients. In this guide, we will walk you through an easy prawn biryani recipe with step-by-step instructions. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, this homemade prawn biryani will leave your taste buds craving more!

Table of Contents

Ingredients Required

For Marination:

500g prawns (cleaned and deveined)
1/2 cup yogurt
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp red chili powder
1 tsp garam masala
1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt to taste

For Rice:

2 cups basmati rice (soaked for 30 minutes)
4 cups water
2 bay leaves
4 cloves
2 green cardamoms
1-inch cinnamon stick
1 tsp salt

For Biryani Masala:

2 tbsp ghee or oil
1 large onion (sliced thinly)
2 tomatoes (chopped)
1 tbsp biryani masala powder
1 tsp cumin powder
1 tsp coriander powder
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1/2 cup chopped coriander leaves
1/2 cup chopped mint leaves
1/2 cup fried onions (for garnishing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Prawns

In a bowl, mix the cleaned prawns with yogurt, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, and salt.
Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice

In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
Add bay leaves, cloves, cardamoms, cinnamon stick, and salt.
Add the soaked basmati rice and cook until 70% done (the rice should be firm but not fully cooked).
Drain the water and keep the rice aside.

Step 3: Cook the Prawn Masala

Heat ghee or oil in a deep pan or a biryani pot.
Add the sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
Add chopped tomatoes, biryani masala powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and turmeric powder.
Cook until the tomatoes become soft and the masala turns aromatic.
Add the marinated prawns and cook for 4-5 minutes until they turn pink and tender.

Step 4: Layer the Biryani

In the same pot with the prawn masala, spread half of the cooked rice.
Sprinkle chopped coriander and mint leaves over it.
Add the remaining rice on top and garnish with fried onions.
Drizzle 1 tbsp ghee for extra flavor.

Step 5: Dum Cooking (Final Step)

Cover the pot with a tight lid or seal it with aluminum foil.
Cook on low heat for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Turn off the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Prawn Biryani

Use fresh prawns for the best taste.
Do not overcook prawns, as they can become rubbery.
Use good-quality basmati rice for the perfect fluffy texture.
Allow the biryani to rest for a few minutes after cooking for better flavor infusion.

Serving Suggestions

Prawn Biryani tastes best when served with:

Raita (yogurt-based side dish)
Salad with cucumber, onion, and tomatoes
Pickles and papad

This easy prawn biryani recipe is perfect for special occasions or a weekend treat. The rich flavours, aromatic spices, and juicy prawns make this dish a delightful meal. Try this recipe at home and enjoy the authentic taste of homemade prawn biryani!

Prawn Biryani – A Step-by-Step Recipe