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Biryani: India’s relationship with food is deeply emotional, cultural, and celebratory, and no dish represents this connection better than biryani. As reflected in the latest annual food consumption trends shared by Swiggy, biryani has once again emerged as the most-ordered dish across the country in 2025. This milestone marks the tenth consecutive year that biryani has topped the charts, reinforcing its unmatched popularity and timeless appeal among Indian consumers.

A Record-Breaking Year for Biryani Orders

The year-end data for 2025 reveals astonishing numbers that highlight the scale of India’s love for biryani. A total of 93 million biryanis were ordered through the platform in a single year. When broken down further, this translates to one biryani being ordered every 3.25 seconds, or nearly 194 biryanis every minute. These figures not only reflect consumer preference but also underline how deeply ingrained the dish is in everyday dining habits across the country.

From busy weekdays to relaxed weekends, biryani continues to be the default comfort meal for millions. The consistency of these numbers over a decade suggests that while new food trends may emerge and fade, biryani’s dominance remains unaffected.

Why Biryani Continues to Win Hearts

One of the key reasons behind biryani’s continued success lies in its versatility. It caters equally well to solo diners, families, office gatherings, and festive celebrations. The dish adapts effortlessly to regional tastes, spice levels, and cooking styles, making it universally appealing. Whether ordered for a late-night craving or a large social event, biryani fits seamlessly into every occasion.

The platform’s report summed this sentiment up by describing biryani as the undisputed favorite that transcends changing trends and generations. Its rich aroma, layered flavors, and satisfying portions continue to set it apart from other popular dishes.

Chicken Biryani Leads the Popular Variants

Among the numerous versions available, chicken biryani stood out as the most preferred choice in 2025. With 57.7 million orders attributed to this single variant, it clearly outperformed all other options. Its balanced flavor profile and widespread acceptance across regions make it a safe and satisfying choice for a large audience.

Vegetarian and other meat-based biryanis also contributed significantly to the overall numbers, showcasing the diversity of preferences among Indian consumers. However, chicken biryani’s consistent lead highlights its status as a national favorite.

The Role of Delivery Partners Behind the Numbers

While the spotlight often shines on the food itself, the report also acknowledged the tireless efforts of delivery partners who ensure timely deliveries across cities. Their contribution plays a crucial role in sustaining the scale at which these orders are fulfilled.

In 2025, one delivery partner from Bengaluru completed an impressive 11,718 deliveries in a single year, reflecting dedication and efficiency. Similarly, a delivery partner from Chennai emerged as the leading female delivery professional, completing 8,169 orders. These achievements underline the human effort that supports India’s growing online food ecosystem.

Other Popular Food Choices in 2025

Although biryani claimed the top spot once again, other global favorites also enjoyed strong demand. Burgers ranked second with 44.2 million orders, while pizzas followed closely with 40.1 million orders. These numbers indicate a balanced mix of traditional Indian cuisine and international fast food preferences among consumers.

Despite this competition, biryani maintained a significant lead, proving that classic Indian dishes continue to outperform newer food trends in the long run.

Biryani as the Centerpiece of Celebrations

Some orders placed during the year stood out due to their sheer scale and variety. One notable order from Mumbai included multiple servings of dum chicken biryani, assorted kebabs, flavored biryanis, and an extraordinary quantity of desserts. Such orders highlight how biryani often becomes the centerpiece of celebrations, parties, and special occasions.

These large orders also emphasize the dish’s role beyond daily meals, positioning it as a symbol of togetherness and festivity.

A Decade-Long Love Story That Continues

As food habits continue to evolve with changing lifestyles and preferences, biryani’s decade-long reign reflects its emotional and cultural significance in India. It is not just a meal but an experience that brings people together, regardless of age, region, or background.

The 2025 data clearly shows that while consumers enjoy experimenting with new flavors, their loyalty to biryani remains unwavering. This enduring popularity suggests that biryani will continue to dominate India’s online food landscape for years to come.