biryani

American  

[bir-ee-ah-nee] / ˌbɪr iˈɑ ni /

Or biriani

noun

1. a spicy Indian dish of rice with meat or vegetables, flavored with saffron or turmeric.

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biryani British  

/ ˌbɪrɪˈɑːnɪ /

noun

1. any of a variety of Indian dishes made with rice, highly flavoured and coloured with saffron or turmeric, mixed with meat or fish

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Etymology

Origin of biryani

1930–35; < Hindi, Urdu biryānī from Persian biryan “fried, roasted”

Explanation

If you're in the mood for a vibrant, customizable Indian rice dish packed with spices, vegetables, and meats, then biryani is the perfect choice. The word biryani is likely derived from the Persian word birinj, "rice," or biryan, "to fry." The dish may have originated in Iran, but was later adapted into the popular Indian dish known today. There are many variations of biryani from different regions of India. Some are very spicy, while others have a milder flavor. Biryani is often served at celebrations and family gatherings throughout South Asia. It's traditionally made by layering long-grain Basmati rice with a protein and vegetables. The complex mix of spices in biryani often includes saffron or turmeric, which give it a bright yellow hue.

Example Sentences

"Chicken curry? Matar paneer? Biryani?" and I just annoyingly reply "Yeah, that all sounds good."

From Salon • Dec. 11, 2022

And his eatery on the Vegas strip, Divine Dosa & Biryani, is benefiting from the return of gamblers to the casinos.

From Washington Post • May 27, 2022

Biryani and Pizza House rolls out a big spread for its Sunday buffet.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 16, 2022

Biryani, most cooks will tell you, is an intimidating affair.

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2021

Biryani is one of the few Pakistani dishes I actually like.

From "A Place at the Table" by Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan