Gujarati Biraj Recipe – Saffron Flavored Sweet Lentil Rice with Dry Fruits & Coconut
Discover the delightful flavors of Gujarat with this traditional Gujarati Biraj Recipe, a comforting sweet lentil rice dish that is infused with the rich aroma of saffron, cardamom, and ghee. Perfect for a festive meal or a wholesome dinner, this dish combines the nutty goodness of chana dal (Bengal gram), the sweetness of sugar, and the luxurious texture of fresh coconut, dry fruits, and saffron.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati rice | 1 cup |
| Chana dal (Bengal gram dal) | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh coconut (grated) | 1/4 cup |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Cardamom powder (freshly pounded) | 1 teaspoon |
| Saffron strands | 3 strands |
| Almonds (badam, thinly sliced) | 2 tablespoons |
| Pistachios (thinly sliced) | 2 tablespoons |
| Cashew nuts (thinly sliced) | 2 tablespoons |
| Raisins | 2 tablespoons |
| Ghee | 4 tablespoons |
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 60 minutes |
| Cooking | 30 minutes |
| Total | 90 minutes |
Servings
4 servings
Cuisine
Gujarati Recipes
Course
Dinner
Diet
Vegetarian
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Rice and Dal
Begin by washing the basmati rice and chana dal under cold running water. Once rinsed, soak them together in 3 cups of water for at least 1 hour. This will help soften the grains and lentils, ensuring they cook perfectly.
Step 2: Roast the Nuts
In a small pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee over medium heat. Add the almonds, pistachios, cashew nuts, and sauté them gently until they are golden brown and fragrant. Once roasted, remove them from the pan and set them aside.
Step 3: Cook the Rice and Dal
In a large pan, heat 3 tablespoons of ghee on medium heat. Add the soaked rice and chana dal, along with the water in which they were soaked. To this, add cardamom powder, saffron strands, and sugar. Stir everything well to dissolve the sugar and incorporate the flavors.
Step 4: Simmer the Dish
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the mixture simmer gently. Allow it to cook until the rice and dal are tender, and all the water has been absorbed. This should take around 15-20 minutes. Once done, turn off the heat and let the dish rest for 15 minutes.
Step 5: Add Final Touches
After resting, open the pan and stir in the freshly grated coconut, the roasted nuts, and raisins. The coconut will add a creamy texture, while the nuts and raisins provide a delightful crunch and sweetness.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your Gujarati Biraj is now ready to serve! Pair it with some hot Gujarati Kadhi and Desi Kala Chana Curry for an authentic Gujarati meal experience. This dish is not just a treat for the taste buds but also an indulgence for the senses with its vibrant colors and aromatic flavors.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~50 g |
| Protein | ~8 g |
| Fat | ~15 g |
| Fiber | ~5 g |
| Sugars | ~30 g |
This Gujarati Biraj recipe is a beautiful blend of flavors and textures, with the sweetness of sugar balancing the earthiness of the lentils. The saffron and cardamom bring a warm, fragrant touch, while the mix of dry fruits adds a festive charm to the dish. It’s a must-try recipe for those seeking an authentic taste of Gujarat!
Enjoy this dish as a satisfying standalone meal or as a part of a grand feast. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy dinner, Gujarati Biraj will surely be a hit at your table.
