biryani rice recipe vegetabele Biryani Rice Recipe Vegetable: Easy Flavorful Guide

Biryani rice is a beloved dish that brings together the aromatic richness of spices with hearty vegetables and fluffy basmati rice to create a truly satisfying meal. If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist on this classic, you’re in for a treat!

This vegetable biryani recipe combines vibrant seasonal veggies with fragrant spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, layered perfectly with saffron-infused rice for a colorful and flavorful experience.

It’s perfect for family dinners, festive occasions, or anytime you crave a comforting, wholesome meal.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and yields delicious results. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand.

Get ready to impress your guests or simply enjoy a cozy night in with this delightful vegetarian biryani rice recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetable biryani recipe is a celebration of flavors and textures. The combination of spices creates a fragrant, warm base that complements the sweetness and earthiness of the vegetables.

The rice cooks to a perfect fluffy texture, and the layering technique ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

It’s also incredibly nutritious, providing a balanced mix of carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins from the fresh vegetables. The recipe is adaptable for dietary preferences, and you can easily make it vegan by using oil or plant-based butter.

Plus, it’s an all-in-one dish that can serve as a main meal, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups basmati rice, rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, potatoes, cauliflower)
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit (optional)
• 1 cup plain yogurt (use dairy-free yogurt for vegan option)
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 tablespoon biryani masala (store-bought or homemade)
• ¼ teaspoon saffron strands soaked in 2 tablespoons warm milk or water
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil or ghee
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 4-5 whole spices: 2 bay leaves, 4 cloves, 3 cardamom pods, 1-inch cinnamon stick
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• Fresh mint leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt to taste
• 3 cups water

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet with lid
• Fine mesh strainer or colander
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl for saffron soaking

Instructions

1. Prepare the rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for about 30 minutes to an hour. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in the pot on medium heat. Add the mixed vegetables and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are slightly tender but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the onions and spices: In the same pot, add the remaining oil. Add cumin seeds and whole spices (bay leaves, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon). Once fragrant, add sliced onions and cook until golden brown, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add aromatics and tomatoes: Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Cook for 2 minutes until raw smell disappears. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and oil starts to separate.
5. Mix in spices and yogurt: Lower the heat and add turmeric, red chili powder, biryani masala, and salt. Stir well. Add the yogurt gradually, mixing continuously to avoid curdling. Cook for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
6. Combine vegetables: Return the sautéed vegetables to the pot. Mix everything thoroughly and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
7. Cook the rice: In a separate large pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil with a pinch of salt. Add the soaked and drained rice. Cook until the rice is 70% done (the grains should still have a slight bite). Drain the rice and set aside.
8. Layer the biryani: Spread half of the cooked rice evenly over the vegetable mixture in the pot. Sprinkle half of the chopped mint and coriander leaves. Add the remaining rice on top, followed by the rest of the herbs. Drizzle the saffron-infused milk evenly over the top layer.
9. Dum cooking (steaming): Cover the pot tightly with a lid. You can seal it with a damp cloth or dough for extra steam retention. Cook on the lowest heat for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the rice to finish cooking.
10. Rest and serve: Turn off the heat and let the biryani rest for 10 minutes. Gently fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Tips & Variations

Remember, patience is key to a perfect biryani! Allowing it to rest after cooking lets the flavors settle beautifully.

• For a vegan version, substitute yogurt with coconut or cashew-based yogurt and use oil instead of ghee.
• Add fried onions (birista) on top for extra texture and sweetness.
• Incorporate nuts like cashews or almonds and raisins for a festive touch.
• Use a heavy-bottomed pot or a Dutch oven for even heat distribution during dum cooking.
• Try adding a splash of rose water or kewra water for authentic aroma.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetable biryani pairs wonderfully with a cooling side to balance the spices. Try serving it with a simple cucumber raita or a plant-based yogurt-based salad.

A fresh green salad with lemon dressing also complements the dish beautifully.

For a heartier meal, serve with warm naan bread or a side of roasted vegetables. Leftovers reheat well and make for an excellent lunch option.

For more delicious vegetarian recipes to complement your meals, be sure to check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

Conclusion

Vegetable biryani is an exquisite dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine right to your table. This recipe is both approachable and rewarding, with layers of spices, tender vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice creating a delightful harmony of taste and texture.

Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion, whether a festive feast or a comforting weeknight dinner.

By following the easy steps and tips shared, you can master this classic vegetarian biryani and enjoy a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Don’t forget to explore other flavorful recipes like the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend to elevate your cooking even further.

Happy cooking and savor every bite!

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