Awadhi Lamb Biryani

This biryani is prepared in the pakki style, in which the lamb is cooked before going into the pot, resulting in tender meat and a delicious, rich gravy that infuses the rice as the biryani bakes. The method has two stages: making a base stew with the lamb, which you can do ahead (see note), before assembling the biryani.

If you wish to make an even grander dish, use a mix of lamb cuts on the bone, such as ribs, sliced shank and saddle.