Traditional biryani is made with various combinations of spices depending on the region. Some, but not all, of these spices are mildly hot spices like cinnamon and clove. Others are not at all hot, like saffron and cardamom, but are very flavorful.u003cbr/u003eIf you want to add a spicy kick, you can add diced fresh chile peppers (jalapeno, serrano, or any other chile pepper you have on hand and depending on how spicy you like your food) to the pot along with the rice and water.