Step 1
Prick peeled baby potatoes, rub with turmeric, red chili, and salt. Shallow fry in oil until golden brown and 80% cooked. Set aside.
Step 2
In a bowl, mix whisked yogurt with all marination spices, ginger-garlic paste, and fried potatoes. Let it sit for 20-30 minutes.
Step 3
Boil 5-6 cups of water with whole spices and salt. Add soaked rice and cook until 70-80% done (should have a slight bite). Drain and set aside.
Step 4
In a thick-bottomed pot (handi) or pan , heat ghee. Add the marinated potato mixture and cook on medium heat until the oil separates and gravy thickens.
Step 5
Top the potato masala with half the fried onions, mint, and coriander. Add a layer of cooked rice. Top with remaining onions, mint, coriander, saffron milk, and drizzle ghee.
Step 6
(Dhungar Method): Place a small steel bowl in the center of the rice. Heat a piece of charcoal until red hot, place it in the bowl, and drop 1 tsp of ghee on it. Immediately cover the handi with a tight lid or aluminum foil to trap the smoke for 5-7 minutes.
Step 7
Dum Cooking: Remove the coal bowl. Seal the pot with foil or dough. Cook on very low heat (or on a hot tawa) for 15-20 minutes.