Biryani gets ordered constantly and explained rarely, so here's the short version: it's not fried rice, and it's not a curry poured over rice. Biryani is basmati rice and marinated meat, layered raw in the same pot and slow-cooked together so the rice takes on the spice and juices of the meat as it steams — a technique called dum cooking. That layering is why good biryani has visibly separate grains of rice in different shades, not a uniform orange mix.
How ours is made
We start with premium long-grain aged basmati, par-cooked with whole spices (green cardamom, black cardamom, cloves, bay leaves, cinnamon, and mace). We then layer the rice with spiced fried onions, fresh mint, saffron milk, and marinated proteins. All poultry, lamb, and goat meats at Rani Mahal are 100% certified Halal, slow-steamed under a tightly sealed lid (dum pukht) so the fragrant juices infuse every grain of rice without drying out the meat.
Chicken, lamb, shrimp, or vegetarian
- Chicken Biryani — tender 100% Halal bone-in or boneless chicken layered through the fragrant basmati rice. Reliable, aromatic, and crowd-friendly.
- Lamb Biryani — richer and deeply traditional; tender chunks of 100% Halal lamb simmered with whole spices, imparting profound depth into the saffron rice.
- Shrimp Biryani — lighter, delicate coastal preparation with plump shrimp cooked just until tender.
- Vegetable Dum Biryani — crisp seasonal cauliflower, carrots, potatoes, green peas, and paneer layered with aged basmati for our vegetarian guests, prepared with dedicated vegetarian cookware.
All varieties run on our adjustable spice system — mild, medium, or spicy — so your table can enjoy the full depth of aromatics at your preferred heat level.
What to order alongside it
Biryani is a complete, satisfying meal on its own — rice and protein steamed together — so it doesn't strictly need extra bread or sides. Our cooling house-made cucumber raita is the essential accompaniment, softening the spices and balancing the rich basmati. A side of yellow Tadka Dal or creamy Dal Maharani makes a delicious companion.
Ordering it
Every variety is available on our biryani menu for dine-in, fast pickup, or direct delivery online across Mamaroneck, Rye, Scarsdale, White Plains, and Greenwich.
Planning an event? Biryani is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for per-person catering and our party trays — keeping perfectly warm in chafing dishes without needing last-minute kitchen assembly.