Biryani is a popular Indian dish made with rice, meat, and a mixture of spices. However, you can make a vegetarian version that is just as flavorful and satisfying. Vegetable biryani is a flavorful and aromatic dish made with basmati rice, a mixture of vegetables, and a blend of aromatic spices. It is a one-pot dish that is perfect for special occasions or for a weekend treat. Here is how you can make vegetable biryani at home:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, peas, potatoes, etc.)
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup chopped coriander leaves
- 1/2 cup chopped mint leaves
- 1/4 cup fried onions
- 1/4 cup cashews
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup ghee or butter
- 2 teaspoons biryani masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 4 cups water
Instructions:
- Wash and soak the rice in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pan, heat the oil and add the sliced onions. Cook until they are brown and crispy. Remove half of the onions and set aside for garnish.
- In the same pan, add the mixed vegetables and cook for 5-7 minutes. Add the tomatoes, yogurt, coriander leaves, mint leaves, biryani masala, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for another 5-7 minutes.
- In another large pan, bring the water to a boil. Add the drained rice and cook until it is 70% cooked. Drain the rice and set aside.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pan, melt the ghee or butter. Add a layer of the vegetable mixture, followed by a layer of rice. Sprinkle with some fried onions, cashews, and raisins. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used up.
- Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes. Remove from heat and let it sit for 10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with the reserved fried onions and serve hot.
Notes:
- Feel free to customize the vegetables according to your preference and season. Other good options include cauliflower, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
- Biryani masala is a blend of aromatic spices and is available in most Indian grocery stores or online.
This vegetable biryani is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for special occasions or for a weekend treat. Serve it with a side of raita (yogurt with herbs and spices) and pickles for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Discover more delicious recipes and diet-related blogs on GSFoodie – your go-to destination for all things food!