Vegetarian Biryani

Vegetarian Biryani is a flavorful and aromatic dish made with fragrant basmati rice, assorted vegetables, and a blend of spices. Here’s a simple recipe for a delicious Vegetarian Biryani:

Vegetarian Biryani:

Ingredients:

For Biryani Rice:

• 2 cups basmati rice, washed and soaked for 30 minutes
• 4 cups water for cooking rice
• 1-2 bay leaves
• 4-5 green cardamom pods
• 4-5 cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• Salt to taste

For Biryani Vegetables:

• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, potatoes, etc.), chopped
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup yogurt
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 cup fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• Ghee or oil for cooking

For Layering:

• Fried onions (for garnish)
• Ghee or melted butter for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Cook Biryani Rice:
   • Boil the soaked basmati rice with bay leaves, cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon stick, and salt until it’s 70-80% cooked. Drain excess water.
2. Prepare Biryani Vegetables:
   • In a large pan, heat ghee or oil. Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
   • Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
   • Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they are soft.
3. Add Vegetables and Spices:
   • Add mixed vegetables and cook for a few minutes.
   • Stir in turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt.
   • Add yogurt, garam masala, fresh coriander leaves, and mint leaves. Mix well.
4. Layering the Biryani:
   • In a large heavy-bottomed pan or biryani pot, layer half of the partially cooked rice at the bottom.
   • Spread half of the vegetable mixture over the rice.
   • Repeat the layers with the remaining rice and vegetables.
5. Final Cooking:
   • Garnish the top layer with fried onions and drizzle ghee or melted butter over it.
   • Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes or until the rice and vegetables are fully cooked.
6. Serve:
   • Gently fluff the biryani with a fork and mix the layers before serving.
   • Serve hot, garnished with additional fried onions and accompanied by raita or a side salad.

Vegetarian Biryani is a wholesome and flavorful dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a delicious weekend meal. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference, and enjoy this aromatic and satisfying dish!