Introduction

Mandi biryani and Hyderabadi biryani are two distinct types that taste equally delicious. But which one is better? This blog post will contrast  Mandi vs Hyderabadi biryani and let you decide for yourself!

The traditional biryani dish needs no description. The Mughals are said to have introduced biryani to northern India, while the Arabs are said to have introduced it to southern India.

The biryani dish had several forms and variations in the country’s major centers known for biryani, such as Lucknow, Old Delhi, and Hyderabad. The relishing south-side biryanis showcase fiery Chettinad cuisine in Tamil Nadu.

ALSO READ : Types of biryani you have to try

Biryani is heaped with many myths that it is unhealthy and  is considered as a heavy appetite, it has various health benefits too. Each ingredient used has its own distinctive health benefits, and thus the biryani is not only packed with taste but also with nutrients.

The protein quotient of nutrition in biryani is provided by chicken and cashew nuts. Turmeric contains anti-inflammatory effects and lowers inflammation in the body. Red chilli powder contains copper and iron, which aid in the development of red blood cells, and the folic acid in red chilli powder helps the body resist anaemia.

 Adding mint leaves to biryani improves both the fragrance and the health factor. Eggs are high in protein. Cumin seeds provide flavor to the biryani while also aiding in blood sugar regulation, and they stimulate the activity of digestive enzymes, allowing the liver to produce galls.

Basmati rice has a low glycemic index. Allicin, selenium, copper, manganese, and vitamins may serve as cancer-fighting antioxidants.

Biryani contains chicken and vegetables, making it a nutrient-rich dish; it also contains other nutrients, making it a healthy choice. A portion of chicken biryani weighing 200 g has 48 mg of cholesterol and 20 g of protein, which explains how nutritious the dish is. But having too much is not healthy, as the biryani is high in carbohydrates.

Did you know: The procedure of sealing the biryani and cooking it on a slow fire is called ‘Dum Pukht.’

All about Mandi biryani

The main components of Mandi Biryani, a traditional Yemeni dish, are rice and meat cooked in a firepit with a special spice blend. Mandi, also known as Kuzhi Manthi, is a sort of biryani meal prepared with rice and meat packed with flavorful spices. 

In many sections of the Middle East, it is even regarded as a staple meal because of how widely consumed and popular it is there. The slow-cooked beef in a tandoor creates incredibly soft and flavorful meat that is served over fragrant rice. The Arabic word nada, which means “dew,” is the root of the term “mandi.” 

Hyderabad is the first place that comes to mind when we discuss biryani, and it has grown to be the dish’s most well-known location and trademark. Despite the fact that Hyderabad has its own unique varieties of biryani, making mandi biryani has apparently gotten difficult. 

Mandi restaurants are becoming increasingly popular around Hyderabad due to the high demand, especially in the Old City. Unique mandi sections with unique seating arrangements have been built at a number of restaurants in Hyderabad.

Around a small table known as a “chowki,” on which this distinctively Arab cuisine is served, diners are required to sit on the ground.

Did you know: Raita was served with biryani to adjust the spice level in biryani.

All about Hyderabadi biryani

It is said that the Hyderabadi dum biryani has originated in Persia for more than four hundred years. Once the king of Hyderabad, Aurangzeb, appointed Nizam-Ul-Mulk as a ruler, the dish was brought to India. Hyderabadi cuisine is a fusion of Mughlai and regional cooking styles. 

Hyderabadi Biryani’s origins have evolved over cultures, generations, ingredients, and cooking procedures. Mutton, chicken, and vegetables are first marinated in curd and condiments before being cooked with rice; thus, the rice absorbs all the juiciness and spices to unleash their flavor and aroma. 

The Hyderabadi Dum Biryani has various cooking methods, and the two most authentic ways of cooking are the Kachi yakhni and Pakki yakhni methods.

Raw, marinated beef is piled high with rice and cooked using the Kachi Yakhni cooking method. Pre-cooked meat is partially cooked in Pakki Yakhni before being placed in a handi and completely sealed to extract the fragrance and juices. Hyderabadi biryani is traditionally prepared by simmering it over dum.

Did you know: The term “biryani” is derived from the Persian words ‘Birian,’ which means ‘fried before cooking,’ and ‘Birinj,’ which means rice.

Mandi Biryani or Hyderabadi Biryani?-The Real Biryani Battle

Hyderabadi biryani is made with basmati rice and Mandi biryani is made with long-grain rice. Both Mandi biryani and Hyderabadi biryani are cooked with curd; in addition Mandi biryani is cooked with ghee. 

The meats used in Hyderabadi biryani are generally chicken or goat, while lamb or beef are used in Mandi biryani. Mandi biryani is normally spicier than Hyderabadi biryani, due to the addition of green chilies, whereas Hyderabadi biryani is milder.

The other difference is that Hyderabadi biryani is often cooked with potatoes and the authentic Mandi biryani does not include potatoes. Both Hyderabadi biryani and Mandi biryani are served with raita and its types vary from place to place. 

So, which biryani is better? It honestly depends on your preferences. If you like your biryani milder and less spicy, then Hyderabadi biryani is probably a better choice. If you prefer your biryani to be more flavorful and hearty, then Mandi biryani is probably a better choice.

Did you know: Biryani is made by combining flavored potatoes with it in Kolkata.

Enjoy the taste of authentic biryani 

The authentic biryani

The infused aroma of the whole spices, combined with the rich flavor of the chicken, give biryani an incredible taste. Sulthan’s Biriyani delivers high-quality biriyani that is smacked with flavorful spices and is one of the best places to enjoy the taste of authentic biriyani.

Did you know: India has over 15 varieties of authentic biryani recipes.

Conclusion

Mandi biryani and Hyderabadi biryani are both equally delicious and mouthwatering, and it’s a tough battle to decide which is better. Now it’s your turn to choose one and make it win! So which one will you make for your next meal?