Spinach Kofta Biryani Recipe – Authentic Indian Layered Rice Dish

Last Updated on 5 months ago by Neha Deshmukh

Spinach Kofta Biryani Recipe – Authentic Indian Layered Rice Dish

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you absolutely love a good biryani. It’s the kind of dish that just feels special, right? Perfect for a weekend treat, a celebration, or just when you’re craving something incredibly flavorful. Today, I’m sharing my take on Spinach Kofta Biryani – a beautiful layered rice dish packed with tender koftas, fragrant spices, and a whole lot of love. I first made this for a family gathering and it was a huge hit, so I knew I had to share it with you all!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Spinach Kofta Biryani isn’t just delicious, it’s also surprisingly satisfying. The creamy spinach koftas add a lovely texture and a boost of nutrients, while the fragrant rice and rich gravy create a symphony of flavors. It’s a little bit of effort, but trust me, the end result is so worth it. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress your friends and family with your Indian cooking skills!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this masterpiece:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 bay leaf
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 potato, layered
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1/2 cup tomato puree
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 3/4 tsp garam masala powder
• 1/4 cup cream
• Salt to taste
• 2 cups basmati rice, boiled till almost cooked

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec! A few things make this biryani truly special.

• Basmati Rice: This is the rice for biryani. Its long grains and delicate aroma are essential. I prefer to parboil it until it’s about 80% cooked – this prevents it from becoming mushy during baking.
• Garam Masala: This spice blend is the heart and soul of Indian cooking. Every family has their own secret recipe, so feel free to use your favorite brand or make your own!
• Biryani Spices & Regional Variations: Biryani is a dish with incredible regional diversity. Some variations use saffron (which adds a beautiful color and aroma), while others incorporate rose water or kewra water. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what you love! In South India, you might find coconut milk added to the gravy.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. Prepare the gravy: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the bay leaves and cumin seeds, and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown. Stir in the tomato puree, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala powder. Season with salt to taste. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens and the oil starts to separate from the sides. Finally, stir in the cream and set aside.
2. Make the vegetable layer: In a separate pan, heat the oil. Sauté the sliced potatoes with turmeric powder until lightly browned. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until slightly softened. Set aside.
3. Assemble the biryani: Now for the fun part! In an oven-safe dish, start layering. Begin with a layer of the partially cooked basmati rice, followed by a layer of the sautéed vegetables, then a generous spoonful of the prepared gravy. Arrange the halved spinach koftas on top. Repeat the layers – rice, vegetables, gravy, and koftas – until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of rice.
4. Bake: Cover the dish tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together beautifully. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice is fluffy and the gravy is bubbling.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcook the rice! It will continue to cook in the oven.
• For a richer flavor, you can marinate the vegetables in a little yogurt and spices before sautéing.
• If the gravy seems too thick, add a splash of water or milk.
• Let the biryani rest for 5-10 minutes after baking before serving – this allows the flavors to settle.

Variations

Want to customize this biryani? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based cream instead of dairy cream, and omit any ghee. It’s just as delicious!
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you’re good to go!
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili powder to your liking. For a milder biryani, use 1/2 tsp or less. For a spicier kick, add up to 1.5 tsp.
• Festival Adaptations: This biryani is perfect for special occasions like Eid or Diwali. My aunt always adds a sprinkle of fried onions on top for Diwali – it looks and tastes amazing!

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Spinach Kofta Biryani hot, straight from the oven. It pairs perfectly with a cooling raita (yogurt dip) or a simple yogurt side. A fresh salad also makes a lovely accompaniment.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

FAQs

What type of rice is best for Biryani?

Basmati rice is the gold standard! Its long grains and fragrant aroma make it perfect for biryani.

Can I make the koftas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the spinach koftas a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just fry them right before assembling the biryani.

How do I prevent the Biryani from sticking to the bottom of the dish?

Make sure your gravy isn’t too thick, and that you have enough liquid in the dish. You can also lightly grease the bottom of the dish with oil or ghee before layering.

What is the role of saffron in Biryani?

Saffron adds a beautiful color, aroma, and subtle flavor to biryani. It’s a luxurious addition, but not essential.

Can I use a different vegetable instead of potatoes and bell peppers?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like carrots, peas, or cauliflower. Just make sure they’re cooked until tender before layering.

Enjoy! I hope you love this Spinach Kofta Biryani as much as my family does. Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you!