A Simple Guide to Making Delicious Vegetable Biryani

Vegetable biryani is a flavorful and aromatic dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a rice-based dish cooked with a medley of vegetables, fragrant spices, and fresh herbs. If you’re new to cooking biryani, don’t worry! Here’s an easy-to-follow recipe that will guide you step by step.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• For the rice:
  • 1½ cups (200 grams) basmati rice
  • 5 cups water
  • 1 bay leaf (tej patta)
  • 1 black cardamom
  • 3-4 green cardamoms
  • 1-inch cinnamon stick
  • 2 star anise
  • ¾ tsp salt
• For the biryani masala:
  • 1-inch cinnamon stick
  • 4 cloves
  • 4 green cardamoms
  • 1 strand of mace
• For the vegetable gravy:
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, potatoes, and peas)
  • 2 cups thinly sliced onions
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 cup yogurt (curd)
  • ½ to 1 tsp red chili powder
  • ½ cup water
  • 2-3 tbsp oil or ghee
• Other Ingredients:
  • A few strands of saffron soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk
  • Fresh mint leaves
  • Fried onions (birista)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice:

1. Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for 30 minutes.
2. Boil water in a large pot and add the spices (bay leaf, cinnamon, cardamoms, star anise).
3. Add the soaked rice and salt to the boiling water. Cook until the rice is 75% done—still firm but not fully soft. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Biryani Masala:

1. In a small grinder, add cinnamon, cloves, green cardamoms, and mace.
2. Grind to a fine powder and set aside.

3. Prepare the Vegetable Gravy:

1. Heat oil or ghee in a pan and add sliced onions. Sauté until golden brown. Reserve a small portion for garnishing.
2. Add ginger-garlic paste to the pan and cook until the raw smell disappears.
3. Mix in the prepared biryani masala and stir well.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and sauté for a few minutes.
5. Stir in whisked yogurt, red chili powder, and water. Add salt to taste.
6. Cook until the vegetables are tender and the gravy thickens slightly.

4. Assemble the Biryani:

1. In a heavy-bottomed pan, layer half the vegetable gravy at the bottom.
2. Add a layer of half the cooked rice on top.
3. Sprinkle some fried onions, chopped mint leaves, and saffron milk over the rice.
4. Repeat the layers with the remaining gravy and rice. Top with more fried onions, mint leaves, and saffron milk.

5. Cook the Biryani:

1. Cover the pan tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. If using a damp cloth, place it over the pan before covering with the lid to seal the steam.
2. Place the pan on a low flame or over a heated griddle (tawa). Cook for 25–30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together.
3. Let the biryani rest for 5–7 minutes before opening the lid.

Serving Suggestions

Vegetable biryani is best enjoyed with a side of raita (yogurt mixed with onions and cucumbers), sliced onions, and lemon wedges.

Tips for the Perfect Biryani

• Use good-quality aged basmati rice for long, fluffy grains.
• Do not overcook the rice; it should remain slightly firm after boiling.
• Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste preferences.
• For a vegan version, use cashew yogurt instead of dairy yogurt.

This simple yet delicious vegetable biryani recipe will surely become a favorite in your home. Give it a try and enjoy a wholesome meal with your loved ones!