Authentic Nasi Biryani from Indonesia — traditional Indonesian main dish with step-by-step cooking instructions

Nasi Biryani: Indonesian Spiced Rice

★★★★☆4.5
|Editor's rating

A fragrant rice dish of Arab-Indonesian origin, featuring basmati rice cooked with aromatic spices, saffron, and tender meat, reflecting Aceh's rich trade history.

🗺️ Origin: Indonesia⏱ Time: 30 mins👥 Servings: 4 servings📊 Difficulty: Medium
📋 Recipe
NE
Tested by NusantaraEats Kitchen·Last updated: 29 June 2026

📑 In This Guide

🛒 Ingredients👨‍🍳 Instructions FAQ

💡 Did You Know?

This authentic recipe has been passed down through generations, preserving the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine.

🛒 Ingredients

  • 500 g basmati rice, soaked 30 minutes
  • 500 g chicken or lamb, cut into pieces
  • 200 ml yogurt
  • 2 onions, thinly sliced and fried
  • 4 tomatoes, chopped
  • 200 ml oil
  • 2 tsp biryani spice mix
  • 1 tsp saffron in warm milk
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 4 cardamom pods
  • 4 cloves
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • Fresh mint and coriander
  • Salt to taste

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Marinate meat in yogurt, biryani spice, and salt for at least 1 hour.
  2. Fry onions until golden and crispy. Set half aside for garnish.
  3. In a heavy pot, heat oil and cook remaining onions until soft.
  4. Add marinated meat and cook until sealed and lightly browned.
  5. Add tomatooes and cook until they break down into a sauce.
  6. Parboil soaked rice in salted water for 5 minutes. Drain.
  7. Layer rice over the meat mixture. Drizzle saffron milk over the top.
  8. Sprinkle fried onions, mint, and coriander.
  9. Cover tightly with foil and a lid. Cook on very low heat for 25-30 minutes.
  10. Rest for 10 minutes, then gently fold layers together when serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Nasi Biryani: Indonesian Spiced Rice?

A fragrant rice dish of Arab-Indonesian origin, featuring basmati rice cooked with aromatic spices, saffron, and tender meat, reflecting Aceh's rich trade history.

Where does Nasi Biryani: Indonesian Spiced Rice come from?

Nasi Biryani: Indonesian Spiced Rice originates from Indonesia. It is a beloved traditional dish that has been passed down through generations of Indonesian cooks.

Is Nasi Biryani: Indonesian Spiced Rice difficult to make?

Nasi Biryani: Indonesian Spiced Rice requires moderate cooking skills. While the steps are clear, some techniques need practice.

How do I store leftover Nasi Biryani: Indonesian Spiced Rice?

Store leftover Nasi Biryani: Indonesian Spiced Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as the spices continue to meld.

🥘Recipes Using Similar Ingredients

NE

Recipe researched by the NusantaraEats Editorial Team

This recipe has been carefully researched, tested, and documented to preserve authentic Indonesian culinary traditions. Sources include traditional cookbooks, regional culinary experts, and cultural heritage references from Indonesia.

📚 Traditional Indonesian Cookbooks🏛️ Cultural Heritage References👨‍🍳 Regional Culinary Experts
Loading views...