File:Biryani-the flavor mania!.jpg

English: Biryani is the central dish for any big occasion in the Indian families. The picture highlights not only the platter of a Biryani but if one look closely ,one can easily notice the aromatic ingredients like dried rose petals, fresh mint leaves and Indian flavorsome spices such as cinnamon, star anise and others. I wish if people could actually feel and dive deep into this freshly served biryani, and witness the show of spices and aromas through their eyes, nose and the tastebuds eventually.

Central Asian Dynasties establish Dilli Sultanate in the 12th century CE & introduced delicacies as Biryani to India. "Biryani", the word traces its roots from the Turkish "Biryan", meaning roasted, boiled, grilled or baked.

An astounding debate has always been a part in the Indian culinary about the difference between Biryani and Pulao. The contrasting features according to Colleen Taylor Sen's book "Feasts and Fasts: A History of Food in India" are-

1) Pulaos are usually accompanied to a meal whereas biryanis are the centre piece by various side dishes. 2) Pulao is a single pot dish made by sauteing meat, spices and rice in oil, the adding a liquid and simmering until the liquid is absorbed. 3) For Biryanis, the meat and rice are prepared separately, then combined. 4) In Biryani, layers of meat and rice are put in a pot, which is sealed and slowly cooked for hours.

5) The spicing for pulao is simpler than for Biryanis.