Vegetable biryani is not only a classic Indian dish full of aromatic spices and flavorful vegetables but also nutritious. Whether you're a vegetarian or simply looking for a meatless option, this vegetable biryani will impress.

Ingredients
- 2cupBasmati Rice
- 1/2Cauliflower florets
- 2Carrots (diced)
- 1Potato (diced)
- 1Onion (sliced)
- 2Green Chillies (sliced/chopped)
- 1/2cupTomato puree
- 1/2cupPeas
- 1Capsicum (sliced)
- 1/4cupGhee/Oil
- 1Cinnamon stick
- 3Green Cardamom pods
- 1Bay leaf
- 1tspCumin seeds
- 1tbspGinger-Garlic paste
- 2tbspBiryani powder
- 1/2tspTurmeric
- 1tspCoriander Powder
- 1tbspKashmiri Red Chilli Powder
- Salt, to taste
- 1/2cupCurd (yogurt)
- 2cupWater
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
201.7kcal (10.08%)
Protein
4.0g (8%)
Carbs
32.7g (11.88%)
Sugars
1.3g (2.66%)
Healthy Fat
2.5g
Unhealthy Fat
2.5g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Vegetable Biryani
Soak 2 cups of basmati rice in water for 30 minutes.
In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat ghee\oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add cinnamon stick, green cardamom pods, cloves, bay leaf, and cumin seeds to the pot. Fry the spices for a few seconds until fragrant.
Add sliced onion and green chillis to the pot and fry until pinkish.
Add ginger-garlic paste and fry for a few seconds.
Add tomato puree and cook for 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens and the oil oozes out.
Add turmeric, coriander powder, biryani masala, kashmiri red chilli powder and salt.
Add curd (yogurt) to the pot. Mix well.
Add the chopped vegetables (cauliflower, potatoes, diced carrots, peas, and sliced capsicum) and fry for 5-7 minutes until slightly softening.
Drain the soaked basmati rice and add it to the pot. Mix well with the vegetables.
Add 2 cups of water to the pot and bring it to a boil. Then, lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let the rice cook for 10-15 minutes until it absorbs all the water and becomes tender.
Once the rice is cooked, gently mix the rice and vegetables with a spoon or flat ladle.
Cover and let the biryani rest for a few minutes.
Serve hot with raita and papad.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
201.7kcal (10.08%)
Protein
4.0g (8%)
Carbs
32.7g (11.88%)
Sugars
1.3g (2.66%)
Healthy Fat
2.5g
Unhealthy Fat
2.5g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Chop the vegetables and prepare them before cooking to save time.
Use a heavy-bottomed pot to ensure the biryani doesn't burn or stick to the bottom. If you don't have a heavy-bottomed pot, you can use a non-stick pot.
Adjust the amount of biryani powder and salt to suit your taste. Add some red chilli powder or more green chillies if you like your biryani spicier.
After cooking, let the biryani rest for at least 5-10 minutes before serving, allowing the flavours to blend and the rice to settle.
This recipe yields 4-6 servings. You can adjust the serving size based on your preference.
FAQS
How do I make vegetable biryani step by step?
To make vegetable biryani, start by soaking 2 cups of basmati rice in water for 30 minutes. In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat ghee or oil and add whole spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cumin. Fry sliced onions and green chillies until pinkish, then add ginger-garlic paste and tomato puree. Cook the mixture, then add spices and yogurt. Stir in chopped vegetables and fry for a few minutes. Add the soaked rice, water, and simmer until the rice is cooked. Finally, let it rest before serving with raita and papad.
Is vegetable biryani suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, vegetable biryani can easily be made vegan by substituting ghee with vegetable oil and omitting the yogurt or replacing it with a plant-based yogurt alternative. This way, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious vegan meal.
What can I substitute for basmati rice in vegetable biryani?
If you don't have basmati rice, you can substitute it with jasmine rice or any long-grain rice. However, keep in mind that the cooking time and water ratio may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly to ensure the rice cooks properly.
How should I store leftover vegetable biryani?
To store leftover vegetable biryani, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to prevent drying out and microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through.
What dishes pair well with vegetable biryani?
Vegetable biryani pairs wonderfully with raita (yogurt sauce), papad, or a simple salad. You can also serve it with a side of pickles or a tangy chutney to enhance the flavors of this aromatic dish.
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Leena Kohli
(@leenakohli)
Elevate your confidence through the magic of home cooking with my easy-to-follow recipes π©βπ³β¨ Elevate your confidence through the magic of home cooking with my easy-to-follow recipes π©βπ³β¨...
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