Whole spices

Dum-style biryani: marinated chicken layered with saffron rice and slow-cooked under a sealed dough lid. The steam does the work.

Lamb shoulder marinated 8 hours. Slower dum cook. Deeper, richer, more complex than the chicken version.

Seasonal vegetables: cauliflower, potato, peas, and paneer. Same dum technique. Lighter but just as aromatic.