Yes, you can prepare and freeze biryani successfully with minimal texture loss by ensuring it's cooled properly and stored in airtight containers. Reheating it gently with a splash of water or broth helps retain its moisture and flavor.
Freezing biryani involves a few key steps to prevent significant texture changes. First, cook the biryani as you normally would. Once cooked, spread it out on a large tray to cool down rapidly. This prevents the rice from becoming mushy due to prolonged heat. Once the biryani is completely cooled, portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to eat, thaw the biryani in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. To reheat, add a tablespoon or two of water or broth to the biryani and heat it in a microwave or oven until heated through. This helps to rehydrate the rice and prevent it from drying out.
Undercook the rice slightly before freezing. The freezing and reheating process will finish cooking the rice, preventing it from becoming overly soft.