Recipe of Hyderabadi Biryani Veg Made Easy and Delicious

Updated On: October 3, 2025

Hyderabadi Biryani is a beloved dish that beautifully combines aromatic spices, fragrant basmati rice, and a medley of fresh vegetables to create a vibrant, flavorful meal. Traditionally known for its rich taste and royal origins, this vegetarian version of Hyderabadi Biryani captures the essence of the classic without the meat.

It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy an indulgent, yet wholesome, meal bursting with color and texture.

Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe promises to impress with its layers of spices, saffron-infused rice, and tender vegetables. The magic lies in the slow-cooking technique, which allows the flavors to meld harmoniously.

If you love Indian cuisine or are looking to explore vegetarian dishes that are both traditional and exciting, this Hyderabadi Biryani Veg recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hyderabadi Biryani Veg is a perfect blend of taste, nutrition, and tradition. It offers:

  • Authentic flavors: Experience the rich spices and fragrant herbs synonymous with Hyderabad’s culinary heritage.
  • Vegetarian-friendly: Loaded with fresh vegetables making it wholesome and satisfying for vegetarians and vegans alike.
  • One-pot wonder: The layering technique results in a delicious dish with minimal cleanup.
  • Customizable: Easily adjust vegetables and spice levels to suit your preferences.
  • Perfect for occasions: Impress guests with a traditional yet approachable dish.

Plus, the vibrant colors and enticing aroma make it a feast for the senses that you’ll want to revisit again and again!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Basmati rice
  • 1 ½ cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, potatoes, cauliflower)
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup yogurt (use plant-based yogurt for vegan option)
  • 2 tbsp ghee or oil
  • 2 tsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 3-4 green chilies, slit
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • Handful of mint leaves
  • Handful of coriander leaves, chopped
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • ½ tsp saffron strands soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk
  • Whole spices: 4 green cardamom pods, 4 cloves, 2 bay leaves, 1-inch cinnamon stick, 1 star anise
  • Salt to taste
  • Water as needed for cooking rice

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Heavy-bottomed pot or pressure cooker with lid
  • Frying pan or skillet
  • Colander or sieve for rice rinsing
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Small bowl for saffron soaking

Instructions

  1. Prepare the rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
  2. Cook the rice: Bring a large pot of water to boil with salt and whole spices (cardamom, cloves, bay leaves, cinnamon, star anise). Add drained rice and cook until it’s about 70% done (the grains should still have a bite). Drain and set aside.
  3. Sauté onions: Heat ghee or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and fry until golden brown and caramelized. Remove half for garnishing.
  4. Cook vegetables: In the same skillet, add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté for a minute until fragrant. Add mixed vegetables, turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender but not mushy.
  5. Mix yogurt and herbs: Lower the heat and stir in yogurt, garam masala, mint leaves, and coriander leaves. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. Add lemon juice and mix well.
  6. Layer the biryani: In a heavy-bottomed pot, spread half of the cooked vegetables at the bottom. Layer half of the rice over the vegetables. Sprinkle half the caramelized onions and half the saffron milk over the rice. Repeat with remaining vegetables, rice, onions, and saffron milk.
  7. Dum cooking: Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid or seal with dough to trap the steam. Cook on low heat for 25-30 minutes to allow the biryani to steam and flavors to meld beautifully.
  8. Final touch: Once done, gently fluff the biryani with a fork to mix layers without breaking the rice grains. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

“For an even more authentic aroma, add a few drops of rose water or kewra water during the layering process.”

  • Use fresh vegetables of your choice like bell peppers, mushrooms, or baby corn for variety.
  • To make it vegan, substitute ghee with oil and use plant-based yogurt.
  • If you prefer a richer taste, add fried cashews and raisins between layers for a subtle sweetness and crunch.
  • For extra texture, sprinkle fried onions on top before serving.
  • Try using an Instant Pot for quicker cooking time; check Instant Pot Vegetarian Recipes Indian Food Lovers Adore for similar dishes.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1 cup)
Calories 320 kcal
Carbohydrates 55 g
Protein 7 g
Fat 6 g
Fiber 5 g
Sodium 350 mg

Nutrition values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

This Hyderabadi Biryani Veg pairs wonderfully with cooling sides and accompaniments. Consider serving it with:

  • Freshly made raita (yogurt with cucumber, mint, and spices) to balance the heat.
  • A crisp green salad tossed with lemon and chaat masala.
  • Mirchi ka salan, a spicy chili curry, for an authentic Hyderabadi touch.
  • Warm naan or roti to scoop up the biryani.

For more delicious vegetable-rich recipes, check out our Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals or try a dessert like Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious to end your meal on a sweet note.

Conclusion

Hyderabadi Biryani Veg is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors, colors, and culture. With its perfectly cooked rice, richly spiced vegetables, and the subtle aroma of saffron and herbs, this dish brings the essence of Hyderabad right to your dining table.

It’s a fantastic option for vegetarians and anyone looking to enjoy a traditional Indian dish without meat.

Whether for a festive occasion or a cozy family dinner, this biryani will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Plus, it’s adaptable to various dietary preferences, making it a versatile favorite.

Dive into this recipe, and you might also enjoy exploring other delightful dishes like our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes or Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas for more kitchen inspiration.

📖 Recipe Card: Hyderabadi Veg Biryani

Description: A fragrant and flavorful vegetarian biryani made with basmati rice, mixed vegetables, and aromatic spices. This classic Hyderabadi recipe is perfect for festive occasions or a special meal.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT60M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, peas, potatoes)
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 cup yogurt
  • 2 tbsp ghee or oil
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
  • 1/4 cup chopped coriander leaves
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 4 cups water
  • Salt to taste
  • Whole spices (2 bay leaves, 4 green cardamoms, 4 cloves, 1-inch cinnamon stick)

Instructions

  1. Wash and soak basmati rice for 30 minutes, then drain.
  2. Heat ghee in a pot, add whole spices and sauté until fragrant.
  3. Add sliced onions and fry until golden brown.
  4. Mix in ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cook for 2 minutes.
  5. Add chopped tomatoes, yogurt, and spices; cook until oil separates.
  6. Add mixed vegetables, salt, and cook for 5 minutes.
  7. In a separate pot, boil water with salt and cook rice until 70% done; drain.
  8. Layer the vegetable mixture and rice in a heavy-bottomed pot.
  9. Sprinkle mint and coriander leaves over the top.
  10. Cover tightly and cook on low heat (dum) for 20 minutes.
  11. Turn off heat and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
  12. Gently mix and serve hot with raita or salad.

Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 55 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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