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With snaking queues beginning to form even before the official opening hours of the restaurant, Koothurar Nasi Briyani at Beach Road is not just another hawker selling this local classic must-eat — nasi briyani. Unfortunately for fans, from 23 Mar to 2 May 2023, the team has decided to close the stall temporarily.
Even though I prefer the bold flavours and texture of mutton in comparison to chicken, I had to suffer the consequences of improperly cooked lamb on several occasions at other less recognisable shops. Hence, I usually opt for the chicken variation just to play safe.
Now, this should never be the occasion when eating at Koothurar Nasi Briyani. I cannot reiterate how much the online community has raved about their super tender Mutton Briyani (S$7).
I cannot fault most nasi briyani stalls that focus on nailing the rose-perfumed rice, tender meat and consistency of the accompanying gravy. After all, the most satisfying moment when digging into the dish is pouring all that piping hot and spiced gravy onto the bed of fluffy aromatic rice (or at least that is the case for me).
Bismi Biryani: XXL briyani platters & grilled chicken Kabsa rice with generous portions
However, the owners of Koothurar Nasi Briyani serve their rendition with an extra egg alongside an essential side dish familiar to Indian family meals. I resonate strongly with this additional side dish as it is my favourite component of nasi briyani — the pickled achar.
There are countless variations to this dish and each unique to every household. In the restaurant, cucumbers and carrots are sliced and tossed into a spicy and sour marinade for its flavours to penetrate the vegetables before it is dished out. This provides a refreshing turn and a change of texture before the dish could end up jelak too soon.
Often seen with people constantly lining up for a taste of their nasi briyani, I am relieved that the team has finally paused for an extended break from 23 Mar to 3 May 2023 for Ramadan.
Considering the fact that they have been in the business for more than 30 years, I do not doubt that there will be changes to their recipe or taste of the dishes.
Business will resume on 3 May 2023. Until then, those nasi briyani cravings will just have to be managed elsewhere!
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