Bombay Biryani Recipe Veg Made Easy and Delicious

Bombay Biryani is a vibrant and aromatic rice dish that captures the essence of Mumbai’s rich culinary heritage. This delightful vegetarian version of the classic biryani is a feast for both the eyes and the palate, combining fragrant basmati rice, a medley of fresh vegetables, and a complex blend of spices.

Whether you’re a biryani aficionado or trying it for the first time, this recipe offers an authentic taste of Bombay’s bustling street food culture, made right in your own kitchen.

The layers of flavor come from slow-cooked vegetables infused with saffron, cardamom, and cloves, all mingled with fluffy, perfectly cooked rice. It’s an ideal dish for family dinners, festive occasions, or when you want to impress guests with a delicious and wholesome meal.

Plus, it’s completely vegetarian, making it accessible for those who prefer plant-based meals without compromising on taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Bombay veg biryani recipe is not only packed with flavor but also incredibly versatile and nutritious. The fragrant spices combined with fresh vegetables create a deliciously balanced dish that’s both satisfying and wholesome.

Unlike meat-based biryanis, this version is lighter yet still rich in texture and taste. It’s perfect for those who want a hearty meal without the heaviness.

The recipe is straightforward, using common ingredients and simple techniques, making it accessible even for beginner cooks.

Additionally, this biryani can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables or protein substitutes like paneer or tofu. It’s also a great way to use seasonal produce, making it a year-round crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups basmati rice, rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, peas, potatoes, cauliflower), chopped
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup yogurt, whisked
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1/4 cup chopped coriander leaves
• 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
• 1/4 tsp saffron strands soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk
• 3 tbsp cooking oil or ghee
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 green cardamom pods
• 4 cloves
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1 tsp red chili powder</
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 3 cups water

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or pressure cooker
• Large frying pan or skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Fine mesh strainer for rice
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and chopping board

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.
2. Cook the rice: In a large pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 tsp salt and soaked rice. Cook until rice is 70% cooked (it should still have a bite). Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the onions and spices: Heat oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, bay leaves, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add onions: Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown, about 8-10 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
5. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies: Cook for 2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
6. Add tomatoes and spices: Mix in the chopped tomatoes, red chili powder, turmeric, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes turn soft and oil begins to separate from the mixture.
7. Add vegetables: Add the mixed vegetables and sauté for 5-7 minutes. The vegetables should start to soften but not overcook.
8. Add yogurt and herbs: Lower the heat and stir in whisked yogurt, chopped coriander, and mint leaves. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Layer the biryani: In the heavy-bottomed pot, layer half of the cooked vegetables at the bottom. Spread half of the partially cooked rice over the vegetables. Sprinkle half of the garam masala and half of the saffron milk.
10. Repeat layering: Add the remaining vegetables, then the remaining rice. Top with the remaining garam masala and saffron milk.
11. Dum cooking: Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid or seal with dough to trap steam. Cook on the lowest heat for 25-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
12. Rest and serve: Turn off the heat and let the biryani rest for 10 minutes before opening. Gently fluff with a fork and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Tip: Use aged basmati rice for the best texture and aroma. Fresh basmati tends to be softer and may not hold up well in layering.

Variation: For a vegan version, substitute yogurt with coconut yogurt or cashew cream. You can also add tofu cubes marinated in biryani spices for extra protein.

Tip: Adding fried onions on top before serving adds a crunchy texture and enhances flavor.

Variation: Experiment with veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or baby corn depending on season and preference.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your Bombay veg biryani with a side of refreshing cucumber raita or a simple salad of sliced onions, lemon wedges, and fresh mint. A dollop of cooling yogurt or a tangy pickle also pairs beautifully.

For a complete meal, serve with warm naan or tandoori roti, and a glass of masala chai or a cool mango lassi. The contrast of spicy biryani with cooling accompaniments makes for a memorable dining experience.

If you love exploring flavorful dishes, check out other amazing recipes like Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe, Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe, and Clam Chowder San Francisco Recipe for more culinary inspiration.

Conclusion

Making Bombay Biryani at home is a rewarding experience that brings the flavors of Mumbai right to your kitchen. This vegetarian version is a wonderful alternative to the traditional meat biryanis, offering a rich tapestry of spices and fresh vegetables that satisfy both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

The step-by-step instructions make it approachable for cooks of all levels, and the layering technique ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor. Whether for a festive occasion or a comforting family meal, this Bombay veg biryani is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Don’t forget to experiment with different vegetables and spice levels to suit your taste. Happy cooking and enjoy this delicious journey into Indian cuisine!

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