Hyderabadi Style Kuska Recipe (Biryani Rice)
Hyderabadi Style Kuska, a fragrant and flavorful rice dish, is a traditional vegetarian version of biryani that is full of aromatic spices and fresh herbs. The base of this dish consists of basmati rice, slow-cooked with a blend of whole spices like fennel seeds, star anise, and stone flower. The addition of turmeric, biryani masala, and curd gives the Kuska its signature taste, making it an irresistible meal. Kuska is best enjoyed with a side of raita or a tangy curry, making it perfect for any lunch or special occasion.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati rice (soaked for 30 minutes) | 2 cups |
| Stone flower | 1 piece |
| Star anise | 1 piece |
| Fennel seeds (Saunf) | 1 teaspoon |
| Mace (Javitri) | 2 pieces |
| Cloves (Laung) – chopped | 4 pieces |
| Fresh ginger – chopped | 1 inch piece |
| Onions – sliced | 2 medium-sized |
| Tomatoes | 2 medium-sized |
| Hung curd (Greek yogurt) | 1 cup |
| Mint leaves (Pudina) – chopped | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh coriander (Dhania) leaves – chopped | 1/2 cup |
| Biryani masala powder | 3 tablespoons |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt to taste | As needed |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 52 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 270 mg |
| Calcium | 50 mg |
| Iron | 1.5 mg |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Hyderabadi
Course: Main Course
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
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Heat the Pressure Cooker: Begin by heating a pressure cooker with a small amount of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the whole spices: fennel seeds, mace, star anise, and stone flower. Let them sizzle for about 10 seconds to release their aromatic oils.
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Cook the Onions and Ginger: Add the sliced onions, chopped ginger, and garlic to the cooker. Stir and fry until the onions turn a light golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This process helps release the natural sweetness of the onions and infuses the oil with flavor.
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Add Tomatoes and Salt: Chop the tomatoes and add them to the cooker. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt to help soften the tomatoes. Cook the tomatoes until they become soft and mushy, about 5 minutes.
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Incorporate the Herbs and Spices: Once the tomatoes are cooked, add the chopped mint leaves, coriander leaves, turmeric powder, and biryani masala powder. Stir well, allowing the spices to coat the onions and tomatoes. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the spices become fragrant.
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Add the Yogurt: Add the hung curd (Greek yogurt) to the pot and stir it in, ensuring it blends well with the spices. The yogurt will add a creamy texture and a slight tanginess to the Kuska.
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Add the Rice and Water: Gently add the soaked basmati rice to the cooker. Stir the rice to combine it with the mixture of spices, onions, and tomatoes. Add 4 cups of water to the rice. Check the salt level and adjust as needed.
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Cook the Kuska: Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook on high heat for 2 whistles. Once the second whistle goes off, reduce the heat to low and let the Kuska cook for another 5 minutes. After the cooking time is up, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally.
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Fluff and Serve: Open the lid carefully after the pressure has released. Use a fork to gently fluff the rice, ensuring that all the spices are well distributed throughout the Kuska. Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
Hyderabadi Style Kuska is traditionally served with Tomato Onion Cucumber Raita or Hyderabadi Bagara Baingan for a complete and flavorful meal. The cooling effect of the raita complements the spiciness of the Kuska, making it a perfect side dish. Alternatively, you can also pair it with a simple vegetable curry or a side of crisp papad.
Tips for the Best Kuska
- Use Quality Basmati Rice: Basmati rice is key to achieving the perfect texture and aroma in Kuska. Soak the rice for at least 30 minutes before cooking to ensure the grains remain long and fluffy.
- Adjust the Spice Levels: If you prefer a spicier Kuska, you can add green chilies or a little more biryani masala powder. Adjust the spice level according to your taste.
- Garnish with Fried Onions: For an extra touch of flavor and texture, you can garnish your Kuska with crispy fried onions before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Hyderabadi Style Kuska is a simple yet elegant dish that captures the essence of Hyderabadi cuisine. The medley of spices, the tanginess of yogurt, and the freshness of mint and coriander come together to create a delicious and aromatic rice dish. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal, a special occasion, or a weekend treat, Kuska is sure to impress everyone at the table.
