Top 7 Indian Biryani Myths Busted

Biryani is one of India’s most loved dishes—and also one of the most misunderstood. Everyone has an opinion, a “secret tip,” or a strong belief about what biryani should or shouldn’t be.

It’s time to separate fact from fiction.

At West Side Biryani, we hear these myths every day. Let’s bust the most common biryani myths—once and for all.

Myth #1: Biryani Is Just Spicy Rice

Truth:
If biryani were just spicy rice, it wouldn’t be a national obsession.

Authentic biryani is about:

• Layering, not mixing

• Aroma, not just heat

• Balance of rice, meat, spices, and cooking technique

Rice is only one part of a much bigger story.

Myth #2: The More Spices, the Better the Biryani

Truth:
Great biryani isn’t about quantity—it’s about harmony.

Too many spices can overpower the dish. The best biryanis use carefully measured spices that complement each other, allowing flavors to develop naturally during slow cooking.

At West Side Biryani, balance always beats excess.

Myth #3: Authentic Biryani Must Be Extremely Spicy

Truth:
Spicy biryani is popular—but it’s not the only authentic style.

India offers:

• Bold Hyderabadi biryani

• Subtle Lucknowi biryani

• Mild, aromatic Kolkata biryani

Authenticity lies in technique and tradition—not chili levels.

Myth #4: Biryani Is Too Heavy to Eat Often

Truth:
When cooked properly, biryani can be surprisingly light.

Slow cooking, quality rice, and controlled oil usage make biryani:

• Easier to digest

• Filling without being greasy

• Suitable even for regular meals

It’s poor preparation—not biryani itself—that makes it feel heavy.

Myth #5: Potatoes Don’t Belong in Biryani

Truth:
Tell that to Kolkata.

In Kolkata biryani, potatoes are iconic—not optional. They absorb spices beautifully and add texture and comfort to the dish.

Biryani evolves with culture, and potatoes earned their place fair and square.

Myth #6: Biryani and Pulao Are the Same

Truth:
They may look similar—but they’re worlds apart.

Biryani is layered, slow-cooked, and deeply aromatic—pulao is lighter and simpler.

Myth #7: Anyone Can Cook Great Biryani Easily

Truth:
Cooking biryani is an art.

It requires:

• Precision in timing

• Understanding of dum cooking

• Experience with spice balance

• Patience above all

That’s why great biryani isn’t rushed—and why it tastes best when made by experts.

How West Side Biryani Gets It Right

At West Side Biryani, we don’t believe in myths—we believe in mastery.

• Authentic regional recipes

• Slow dum cooking

• Premium ingredients

• Consistent quality, every time

Because when biryani is made right, there’s nothing to argue about—only enjoy.

Final Thought

Biryani has survived centuries, crossed regions, and won hearts for one reason—it’s built on tradition, technique, and love.

Now that the myths are busted, there’s only one thing left to do…

Grab a plate of real biryani and taste the truth at West Side Biryani.