About the Dish
Biryani is one of India’s most celebrated dishes, and when prepared with basa fillets, it becomes a lighter yet equally flavorful version of the classic. This Basa Fish Biryani (fillet version) brings together fragrant basmati rice, aromatic spices, and the delicate taste of basa fish for a wholesome, satisfying meal. Because basa fillets are boneless, tender, and quick to cook, they make the dish both convenient and delicious. If you’re searching for a hearty basa recipe that’s perfect for special occasions or weekend family lunches, this one is a must-try.
The fish is first marinated in spices, then layered with rice and slow-cooked to infuse every grain with flavor. Unlike heavy meat biryanis, this version feels light on the stomach yet remains rich in taste. It pairs beautifully with raita, pickle, or a simple salad, making it a complete meal in itself.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Servings
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 500g basa fish fillets, cut into chunks
- 2 cups basmati rice, soaked 30 minutes
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 2 green chilies, slit
- ½ cup yogurt
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 2 tsp red chili powder
- 2 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 cloves, 4 cardamoms, 1 cinnamon stick
- Fresh coriander and mint leaves, chopped
- 3 tbsp ghee or oil
- Salt to taste
Method
- Marinate basa fillets with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, chili powder, turmeric, and salt. Keep aside for 20 minutes.
- Cook soaked rice until 70% done, drain, and set aside.
- Heat ghee/oil in a pan, fry onions until golden. Add tomatoes, spices, and cook into a masala base.
- Add the marinated fish gently and cook for 3–4 minutes (do not overcook).
- In a heavy-bottom pot, layer rice and fish masala alternately. Sprinkle coriander, mint, and garam masala between layers.
- Cover tightly and cook on low flame (dum) for 15 minutes.
- Fluff gently and serve hot with raita or salad.
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 29g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 540mg
- Potassium: 520mg
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Vitamin A: 10% DV
- Vitamin C: 14% DV
- Calcium: 5% DV
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