Veg Biryani Recipe Biryani is a popular and traditional Indian dish that is enjoyed by people all over the world. It is known for its aromatic spices, flavorful rice, and tender meat or vegetables. Veg Biryani, as the name suggests, is a vegetarian variation of this classic dish.
The key to making a delicious Veg Biryani lies in using fresh ingredients and carefully layering them to achieve maximum flavor. To start with, you will need long-grain Basmati rice which should be washed thoroughly and soaked in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. In addition to that, you will require vegetables like onion, carrot, green beans, peas along with some whole spices such as cinnamon sticks, bay leaves and cardamom pods.
Begin by heating up ghee (clarified butter) or oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot enough add sliced onions till they turn translucent followed by adding ginger-garlic paste along with chopped tomatoes. Next throw in your favourite veggies into the mixture; I personally enjoy using carrots and green beans for their texture contrast but feel free to get creative here!
Now it's time to add some flavour! Add biryani masala powder along with red chilli powder (if desired). Stir well until everything is coated evenly then pour around 2 cups of water into the pot so that everything gets cooked properly without getting burnt.
While your vegetable mixture cooks on low heat check if the rice has been soaked enough or not? If yes then drain out all excess water from it otherwise let it soak for some more time until ready.
Once prepped gather together all whole spices like cinnamon stick & cardamom pods etc., spread half cooked rice on top of veggie mix covering it completely followed by sprinkling fried onions (optional) & mint leaves on top before repeating one last layer of remaining half-cooked basmati rice , freshly squeezed lemon juice plus another sprinkle of mint leaves to finish it off.
Cover your pot with a lid and cook the biryani on low heat for another 20-25 minutes. After which switch off the flame, let it rest for a few more minutes before opening the lid so that all flavours get properly infused in each grain of rice.
Last but not least, serve hot along with raita (cucumber-yogurt dip) and enjoy your delicious homemade Veg Biryani!