A delightful, aromatic, and hearty one-pot meal featuring rice, vegetables, and Indian spices. This easy-to-prepare dish is perfect for any occasion and customizable to your taste.
Author:inass sped
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:4-6 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:One-Pot
Cuisine:Indian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 ½ cups basmati rice
3 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers, green beans)
1 large onion, thinly sliced
2 tomatoes, chopped
3 tablespoons oil or ghee
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
2 bay leaves
4 green cardamom pods
4 cloves
1 cinnamon stick
1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon red chili powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
Salt, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
4 cups vegetable broth or water
Optional: Cashews or raisins
Instructions
Rinse basmati rice under cold water until clear. Soak for 20 minutes, then drain.
Heat oil or ghee in a large pot over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Once spluttering, add bay leaves, cardamom pods, cloves, and cinnamon stick.
Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
Stir in ginger-garlic paste; sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until tomatoes soften (about 5 minutes).
Add mixed vegetables and stir well. Cook for another 3-4 minutes to absorb spices.
Add soaked rice to the pot, mixing with vegetables. Pour in vegetable broth or water.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot.
Simmer for 20 minutes without lifting the lid.
Turn off heat and let rest for 5-10 minutes. Fluff gently with a fork.
Garnish with chopped cilantro and mint. Add cashews or raisins if desired.
Notes
Use premium basmati rice for best results.
Do not overcook vegetables to maintain their color and nutrients.
Adjust red chili powder to your preferred spice level.
Allow the biryani to rest before serving for flavors to meld.
Experiment with other fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
For a protein boost, add paneer, tofu, or chickpeas.
Consider using quinoa or brown rice instead of basmati for a healthier option.
Coconut milk can be used instead of broth for a creamy texture.
Feel free to use seasonal vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or asparagus.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing is possible for up to 2 months in an airtight container.