Biryani Rice Recipe Veg: Easy & Flavorful Homemade Dish

Biryani is a beloved dish that brings together aromatic spices, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables in a single pot of deliciousness. This vegetable biryani rice recipe offers a flavorful, wholesome, and colorful twist on the classic Indian biryani, perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal without meat.

Layered with fragrant basmati rice, tender mixed vegetables, and a blend of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, this one-pot dish is sure to impress both your family and guests.

Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this biryani is a crowd-pleaser with its rich taste and beautiful presentation. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your favorite veggies or spice levels.

Dive in and learn how to create this stunning, flavorful meal that fills your kitchen with the warm scents of India.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetable biryani recipe is a perfect balance of taste, texture, and nutrition. The fragrant basmati rice pairs beautifully with the medley of fresh vegetables, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal.

You’ll appreciate how the aromatic spices infuse every grain of rice, offering a depth of flavor without overwhelming your palate.

It’s also a flexible recipe—whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it holds up well and tastes even better the next day. Plus, it’s completely vegetarian and can be made vegan by using plant-based yogurt or skipping it altogether.

From busy home cooks to biryani enthusiasts, this recipe is accessible and rewarding. You’ll find it’s an excellent introduction to Indian cooking techniques and can easily be adapted for different dietary needs or preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups basmati rice, rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, cauliflower), chopped
• 1 large tomato, chopped
• ½ cup plain yogurt (use dairy-free for vegan option)
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 4-5 green cardamom pods
• 4 cloves
• 1 small cinnamon stick
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt to taste
• 3 cups water
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish
• Optional: fried onions for topping

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet with lid
• Fine-mesh strainer (for rinsing rice)
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater (for ginger)
• Mixing bowl

Instructions

1. Prepare the rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil: In your large pot or deep skillet, heat the vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Sauté onions and aromatics: Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Stir in the garlic and grated ginger and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Add vegetables and spices: Mix in the chopped mixed vegetables and tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the veggies start to soften. Then add turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
5. Incorporate yogurt: Lower the heat and stir in the yogurt. Cook for another 3 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the mixture thicken slightly.
6. Add rice and water: Gently fold in the soaked and drained rice. Pour in 3 cups of water and stir once gently to mix everything evenly. Increase heat to bring to a boil.
7. Cook the biryani: Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let simmer for 18-20 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to trap steam and cook the rice perfectly.
8. Rest and fluff: Turn off the heat and let the biryani rest, covered, for 10 minutes. Then gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh coriander and mint leaves over the biryani. Optionally, top with crispy fried onions for an extra burst of flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

“For the best biryani, always use long-grain basmati rice and soak it beforehand to ensure fluffy, separate grains.”

Adjust vegetable choices based on seasonality or preference—bell peppers, potatoes, or even paneer cubes work wonderfully. For a richer taste, add a pinch of saffron soaked in warm milk and drizzle it over the rice before the final steam.

If you like a spicier biryani, increase the red chili powder or add sliced green chilies during the sautéing step. To make it vegan, substitute yogurt with coconut yogurt or cashew cream.

For a smoky aroma, try the traditional “dum” technique by sealing the pot lid with dough or a clean kitchen towel and cooking on very low heat.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates and protein with a moderate amount of fat, mainly from the oil or ghee. The vegetables add fiber and essential vitamins, making this a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

Vegetable biryani pairs beautifully with cooling sides such as cucumber raita, a yogurt-based dip with grated cucumber and spices. A fresh salad or pickled vegetables can add a crisp contrast to the rich flavors of the biryani.

For a complete meal, serve it alongside Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe drizzled over steamed vegetables or Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe for a decadent dessert to finish.

Don’t forget a hot cup of masala chai or your favorite Indian-inspired beverage to round out the experience!

Conclusion

This vegetable biryani recipe is an absolute delight that combines the vibrant flavors of Indian spices with wholesome vegetables and fragrant basmati rice. It’s an ideal dish for both beginners and seasoned cooks looking to explore authentic Indian cuisine with a vegetarian twist.

The step-by-step process ensures you achieve perfectly cooked rice and a harmonious blend of spices every time.

Beyond its taste, this biryani is versatile, nutritious, and perfect for any occasion—from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and spice levels.

Try this recipe and experience the magic of biryani in your own kitchen. For other tasty recipes to complement or follow up your biryani, check out our Clam Chowder San Francisco Recipe or Cheese Penny Recipe for delicious inspiration.

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