How to Make Indian Veg Biryani with Vegetables
Indian Veg Biryani is a fragrant, savory rice dish made with a variety of spices, vegetables, and basmati rice. This culinary delight is not only flavorful but also a wholesome meal packed with nutrients. Here’s how to make Indian Veg Biryani with vegetables step by step.
Ingredients
To prepare delicious Indian Veg Biryani, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, potatoes)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2-3 green chilies, slit
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 2 tablespoons biryani masala
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 4-5 whole cloves
- 2-3 green cardamoms
- 1 stick of cinnamon
- 2-3 tablespoons cooking oil or ghee
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander and mint leaves for garnishing
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Rice
Begin by rinsing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and makes the rice fluffy. Soak the rice in water for at least 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cooking the Vegetables
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or pressure cooker, heat the oil or ghee. Add the cumin seeds, cloves, cardamoms, and cinnamon stick. Sauté for a minute until fragrant, then add the sliced onions. Cook until they are golden brown.
Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and sauté for another minute. Next, toss in the mixed vegetables along with turmeric powder and salt. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly soft.
Step 3: Adding Spices and Yogurt
Incorporate the biryani masala and mix well. Lower the heat, then add the yogurt and combine everything, allowing the spices to coat the vegetables thoroughly. Cook this mixture for another 5 minutes for the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Layering the Biryani
After the vegetable mixture is well-cooked, spread the soaked and drained rice evenly over the top. Pour in 4 cups of water and gently stir to combine without breaking the rice grains. Adjust the salt if needed.
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and cook over low heat for about 20-25 minutes. If using a pressure cooker, avoid using the pressure and just let it cook on low heat.
Step 5: Final Touches
Once the rice is cooked and the water has evaporated, turn off the heat and let the biryani sit for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to settle. Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Indian Veg Biryani hot, garnished with freshly chopped coriander and mint leaves. Pair it with raita (yogurt sauce), salad, or your favorite chutney for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Veg Biryani
- Use good quality basmati rice for the best aroma and taste.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your favorites.
- To enhance the flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Indian Veg Biryani, a dish that brings the essence of Indian cuisine to your dining table!