This easy vegetable biryani recipe is packed with flavourful spices, fresh vegetables, and aromatic basmati rice, making it a healthy and satisfying meal. Whether you are a vegetarian or simply looking for a delicious rice dish, this recipe is sure to impress!
Vegetable biryani is a classic Indian dish that has been enjoyed for generations. Originating in the Indian subcontinent, biryani has become a popular dish around the world. This aromatic and flavourful rice dish is typically made with a mix of fragrant spices, vegetables, and rice, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option. What sets biryani apart is the layering of the ingredients and the slow cooking process, which allows the flavours to meld together and develop over time. This dish is perfect for entertaining guests or as a special family meal. In this recipe, we will show you how to make a delicious and authentic vegetable biryani that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
FAQ about Vegetable Biryani Recipe :
Q: What is vegetable biryani?
A: Vegetable biryani is a popular Indian rice dish made with a blend of aromatic spices, vegetables, and basmati rice.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by using vegetable oil instead of ghee and replacing the yogurt with a vegan yogurt or coconut cream. You can also use tofu or another plant-based protein instead of paneer.
Q: Is vegetable biryani a vegetarian dish?
A: Yes, vegetable biryani is a vegetarian dish that is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Q: What vegetables can be used in vegetable biryani?
A: You can use a variety of vegetables in vegetable biryani, such as carrots, peas, beans, potatoes, and cauliflower.
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of basmati rice?
A: Yes, you can use brown rice instead of basmati rice, but the cooking time will be longer.
Q: Can I make vegetable biryani in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can make vegetable biryani in a slow cooker by adjusting the cooking time and liquid ratio.
Q: Is vegetable biryani spicy?
A: The level of spiciness in vegetable biryani can be adjusted to your preference. You can add more or less spice depending on your taste.
Q: Can I make vegetable biryani ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make vegetable biryani ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.
Q: What is the best way to store leftover vegetable biryani?
A: Leftover biryani can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Q: Can I freeze vegetable biryani?
A: Yes, you can freeze biryani for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing and reheat it in the microwave or oven when ready to serve.
Q: What are some side dishes that go well with vegetable biryani?
A: Vegetable biryani can be served with raita, chutney, or pickle as a side dish. Salad or roasted vegetables can also be served alongside.
Find some side dishes to enjoy with Biryani :
Easy Vegetable Biryani Recipe – Delicious and Healthy
Equipment Required
- Large pot with a tight-fitting lid – for cooking the rice and vegetables
- Medium-sized pan – for frying the onions and spices
- Cutting board – for chopping the vegetables
- Sharp knife – for cutting the vegetables and other ingredients
- Wooden spoon – for stirring the rice and vegetables
- Measuring cups and spoons – for measuring the ingredients accurately
- Spatula – for mixing the ingredients and transferring them from one container to another
- Aluminum foil – for covering the pot during the cooking process
- Kitchen timer – for keeping track of the cooking time
Ingredients
Ingredients for Vegetable Biryani
For the biryani rice:
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 3 cups water
- 1 stick cinnamon
- 3-4 pods green cardamom
- 2-3 pieces cloves
- 1 piece bay leaf
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp oil
For the vegetable mix:
- 1 onion (sliced)
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 green chili (chopped)
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, cauliflower, bell peppers)
- 1 tomato (chopped)
- 1 tsp biryani masala
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp oil
Instructions
Preparing the Rice
- Rinse the basmati rice in cold water and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain the water and set the rice aside.
Preparing the Vegetables
- In a large pot, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium heat. Add the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, bay leaf, and cumin seeds. Fry them for a few seconds until they release their aroma.
- Add the soaked basmati rice to the pot and stir well. Add the soaked rice, 1 piece cardamom, cloves, half cinnamon stick and 1 tsp of salt. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Cook the rice for 15-20 minutes or until the water is fully absorbed and the rice is 90% done.
Making the Biryani Masala
- In a separate pan, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Add the ginger-garlic paste and chopped green chili and sauté for another minute.
- Add the mixed vegetables and chopped tomato to the pan and stir well. Add the biryani masala and salt to taste. Cook the vegetables for 5-7 minutes or until they are tender but still slightly crunchy.
Layering & Cooking the Biryani
- Once the vegetables are cooked, add the cooked basmati rice to the pan and mix well. Turn off the heat and cover the pan for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish the biryani with chopped cilantro and serve hot with raita or yogurt.
- This easy vegetable biryani recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy meal. By using fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and high-quality basmati rice, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrition. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal!
Notes
- Soak the basmati rice in cold water for at least 30 minutes before cooking to ensure the grains cook evenly and don’t stick together.
- Use a blend of whole and ground spices, including cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala, to create a flavorful spice mix for the biryani.
- Sauté the vegetables before layering them with the rice to enhance their flavor and ensure they are fully cooked.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot or dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid to ensure the rice cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom.
- Allow the biryani to rest for at least 10 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together and the rice to absorb any excess moisture.
Ingredients for Easy Vegetable Biryani Recipe
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, potatoes, beans)
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp biryani masala
- 2 tbsp ghee or vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 bay leaf
- 2-3 cloves
- 2-3 cardamom pods
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Salt to taste
- Chopped fresh coriander leaves for garnish
How to make Vegetable Biryani :
Preparing the easy vegetable biryani rice recipe
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Start with washing the basmati rice thoroughly in cold water and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
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In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the soaked rice, 1 piece cardamom, cloves, half cinnamon stick and 1 tsp of salt, and cook until the rice is 90% done. Drain the rice and set it aside. Isn’t it easy vegetable biryani rice recipe 🙂
Preparing the Vegetable
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Firstly, heat ghee or oil in a medium-sized pan. Add the sliced onion and fry until golden brown.
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Now add ginger-garlic paste, cumin seeds, bay leaf, cloves, cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick to the pan. Fry the spices for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Add the mixed vegetables to the pan and fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.
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Afterwards, biryani masala and salt to taste. Mix well and fry for another minute.
Cooking the Biryani
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Preheat the oven to 350°F Or You can cook on stove with medium flame.
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Next grease a large baking dish with ghee or oil. Add a layer of the cooked rice to the bottom of the dish.
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Add a layer of the vegetable biryani masala on top of the rice. Likewise, repeat the layering until all the rice and masala are used up. Make sure to end with a layer of rice on top.
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Moreover, cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes.
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Finally, biryani with basmati rice is ready.
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Garnish with chopped coriander leaves before serving.
By following these instructions, you can make a delicious biryani that’s perfect for any occasion.
Tips and Tricks:
- Always soak the basmati rice in cold water for at least 30 minutes before cooking to ensure the grains cook evenly and don’t stick together.
- Use a blend of whole and ground spices, including cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala, to create a flavourful spice mix for the biryani.
- Sauté the vegetables before layering them with the rice to enhance their flavour and ensure they are fully cooked.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot or dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid to ensure the rice cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom.
- Allow the biryani to rest for at least 10 minutes after cooking to allow the flavours to meld together and the rice to absorb any excess moisture.
By following these tips and tricks, you can create a flavourful and aromatic easy biryani that is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
