How to Make Vegetarian Biryani?

Vegetarian biryani is a flavorful and aromatic rice dish that is a popular choice for those seeking a delicious and satisfying vegetarian meal. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of making vegetarian biryani, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences.

Step 1: Gather the Ingredients

To make vegetarian biryani, you will need the following ingredients: basmati rice, mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, potatoes, and bell peppers), onions, tomatoes, ginger-garlic paste, biryani masala or a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala, yogurt, saffron strands (optional), milk, ghee or oil, and fresh herbs like cilantro and mint.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice

Start by rinsing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the boiling water. Cook the rice until it is 70-80% cooked (al dente). Drain the rice and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In a separate large pan or pot, heat ghee or oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until they turn golden brown. Remove half of the fried onions and set them aside for garnishing. To the remaining onions in the pan, add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until fragrant. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.

Step 4: Add Spices and Vegetables

Next, add biryani masala or your preferred blend of spices to the pan and mix well with the onion-tomato mixture. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for a few minutes until they are partially cooked but still retain some crunch.

Step 5: Layer the Rice and Vegetable Mixture

In a separate bowl, mix saffron strands with warm milk and set it aside for a few minutes until the milk turns yellow. Take a large oven-safe dish or pot and start layering the rice and vegetable mixture. Begin with a layer of rice, followed by a layer of the vegetable mixture. Repeat this process until all the rice and vegetables are used. Drizzle the saffron milk over the top layer.

Step 6: Cook the Biryani

Cover the dish or pot with a tight-fitting lid or aluminum foil to trap the steam. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the flavors have melded together.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the biryani is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with the reserved fried onions, chopped cilantro, and mint leaves. Serve hot with raita (yogurt sauce) or any other side dish of your choice.

Making vegetarian biryani at home is a delightful experience that allows you to tailor the dish to your liking. By adding your favorite vegetables and adjusting the spice level, you can create a feast for both the eyes and taste buds. Enjoy the flavors of aromatic spices, fluffy rice, and colorful vegetables with every bite.