Poppy seeds (usually white poppy seeds, known as khus khus) are used in Thalassery biryani primarily for their texture and subtle richness, not strong flavor.
Why poppy seeds are used in Thalassery biryani:
Creamy texture: When ground into a paste (often with coconut, cashews, or fennel), poppy seeds add a smooth, creamy base to the masala, giving it a luxurious mouthfeel.
Mild nutty flavor: Unlike pungent spices, poppy seeds have a mild, nutty sweetness that complements the delicate aroma of Thalassery biryani, which typically avoids overpowering masalas.
Traditional influence: Thalassery biryani is heavily influenced by Mughal and Arab cuisine, where poppy seeds are a classic thickener in gravies and kurmas.
Is Poppy Seeds used in other types of biryani?
Hyderabadi Biryani (especially in the korma base):
Poppy seeds (khus khus) are sometimes added to the marination masala or gravy, often ground with coconut, cashew, or almonds to add body and richness. However, this varies by household or chef.
Why Poppy Seeds are banned in Middle East and Singapore?
Poppy seeds come from the opium poppy plant (Papaver somniferum), which is also the source of opium, used to make narcotics like morphine and heroin.
While culinary poppy seeds used in food typically contain negligible opiate content, they can retain trace amounts of morphine or codeine on their outer surface.
Where are poppy plants grown in India?
Poppy cultivation is legally allowed in only a few states, and it is monitored by the Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN).
The main regions where it is grown:
- Madhya Pradesh (especially in Mandsaur, Neemuch districts)
- Rajasthan (Kota, Baran, Chittorgarh regions)
- Uttar Pradesh (Barabanki, Bareilly, etc.)
These states have the right climate and soil conditions for poppy cultivation and are licensed annually.
Key Points:
- India is one of the few countries legally allowed to grow opium poppy for both pharmaceutical use and culinary poppy seeds.
- Farmers must obtain a government license and meet strict yield quotas.
- The latex extracted is used for medicinal opiates (like morphine), while the dried seeds (which contain negligible narcotics) are sold for culinary purposes.
In others, carrying or possessing them is illegal and could lead to serious legal trouble.
Countries where poppy seeds are restricted or banned:
United Arab Emirates (UAE):
➤ Strictly banned. Even a small amount can lead to arrest and imprisonment.
➤ Customs officials test for traces in luggage.
Saudi Arabia & other Gulf countries:
➤ Treated as a drug-related substance, even though the seeds are non-narcotic.
➤ Illegal or heavily restricted. Poppy seeds are associated with opium production.
Better to be Safe than Sorry! Avoid Carrying Poppy Seeds by Flight
If you're traveling internationally — especially to the Middle East or Asia — it is safest NOT to carry poppy seeds at all.
Other Types of Biryani in India:
- Hyderabadi Biryani
- Ambur Biryani
- Dindigul Biryani
- Sindhi Biryani
- Malabar Biryani (other than Thalassery)
- Lucknowi (Awadhi) Biryani
- Kolkata Biryani
Telma's Biryani :) - My mom's biryani
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