There’s something deeply comforting about a steaming plate of Vegetable Biryani. This vibrant dish, with its medley of colorful veggies and fragrant spices, is the epitome of family gatherings and festive occasions. Each spoonful is a burst of flavors, evoking memories of family bonding and joyful celebrations. Let’s embark on a culinary journey with this unique Vegetable Biryani recipe, and bring a touch of creativity and warmth to your kitchen!
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time:
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Skill Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups basmati rice
- 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 cup carrot, diced
- 1 cup green peas
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1/2 cup green beans, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 cardamom pods
- 4 cloves
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 1/2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak in water for 20 minutes, then drain well.
- In a large pot, heat ghee or oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaf. Sauté until fragrant.
- Add the sliced onions and cook until golden brown. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute.
- Add tomatoes, turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala. Cook until tomatoes soften.
- Add the mixed vegetables (carrot, peas, cauliflower, green beans) and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in yogurt, mixing well.
- Add the drained rice to the pot, gently mixing with the vegetables and spices. Add water or vegetable broth and salt to taste.
- Bring to a boil, then lower the heat. Cover the pot with a lid, simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Turn off the heat and let the biryani rest for 10 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Fluff the rice gently, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro and lemon juice before serving.
Helpful Tips
- Variations: Add your favorite vegetables or even paneer for a protein-packed variation.
- Beginner’s Tip: Use pre-cut vegetables to save time.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the rice.
- Substitutions: Swap yogurt with coconut milk for a vegan version.
Pairing Suggestions
This Vegetable Biryani pairs beautifully with a cooling cucumber raita and crispy papadums. Serve with a side of mango chutney for an extra flavor punch. A tall glass of mint lemonade will complete this delightful meal perfectly.
We hope this Vegetable Biryani brings as much warmth and flavor to your family table as it does to ours. Don’t forget to share your beautiful creations using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. We love seeing your culinary masterpieces! Leave your feedback on our website https://www.zynahz.com/ and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates. Follow Zynahz on social media for more inspiring recipes and tips. Happy cooking!