Tue, 2010-11-23 12:21 — admin

Bari-Nice

A favourite among many Malaysians, nasi beriyani can be had with either chicken or mutton. And, at JM Bariani House, side orders are available too for a more filling meal.

By ARIS ZARIL

If you are a fan of Johorean cuisine, surely the 'nasi beriyani' will be among the first to come to mind. The origins of beriyani, or 'bariani' as the locals prefer to call it, are Middle-Eastern, but the popularity of the dish have made it a favourite among Malaysians of all races. One such franchise which has beriyani-lovers raving is JM Bariani House.

Established in 1983 by husband and wife Jamilah-Mustapha (JM), the beriyani franchise has been making a name for itself with its famed Johorean recipe and high-quality basmathi rice. Malaysian Today managed to check out their new branch in IOI Boulevard, Puchong recently.

The outlet features a rather cosy atmosphere, with a casual outdoor lounge area and air-conditioned indoors. The interior features a pleasant red, white and black theme, giving it a nice up-market feel. Mirrors are put to good use, giving visitors a sense of spaciousness.

For the meals, we had a serving of both the 'Nasi Bariani Ayam' (RM12) and 'Nasi Bariani Kambing' (RM14); chicken and mutton bariani rice respectively. The dishes were delicious to the last grain, and you could feel that care was taken to ensure the quality of the rice was top-notch. The rice was piping hot while the meat tender and the gravy thick. In other words, lovely. The various spices used in cooking the rice works in harmony with each dish.

They seem to have nailed it well as far as taste is concerned. There is also an option of having it 'buried' or 'tanam' in rice, as described by their staff.

Speaking of buried, nothing beats the real deal, which is the Johor favourite 'Nasi Bariani Gam', offered only as specials on selected days. 'Nasi Bariani Gam Ayam' (RM14.90) is only available on Wednesdays while 'Nasi Bariani Gam Kambing' (RM16.90) is available on Saturdays.

Various other side dishes include 'Tauhu Bakar' (RM4.90) and 'Acar Buah' (RM3). An interesting addition not usually found in a nasi beriyani outlet is the 'Fried Ribs Rosemary' (RM13.80). While appealing, the dish could do with being slightly less tough. For those looking for something sweet to end a meal, you could go for the 'Cream Caramel' (RM2.50) or 'Ice Cream Tapai' (RM3.50).

Overall, JM Bariani House is a great place for those who love nasi beriyani. The inviting atmosphere makes it an excellent hangout place too. With more than a dozen outlets in the Klang Valley, you're sure to find an outlet near you.

JM Bariani House
BVGF 25, Ground Floor,
IOI Boulevard
Bandar Puchong Jaya