Easy Veg Biryani | Vegetable Biryani Recipe

Craving the delicious aroma and comforting flavors of biryani but looking for a vegetarian option? Look no further than this Easy Veg Biryani recipe! This delightful dish features fluffy basmati rice layered with a vibrant mix of colorful vegetables, all simmered in a rich and aromatic masala sauce. It's surprisingly simple to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
This Easy Veg Biryani is a crowd-pleaser, sure to tantalize taste buds with its delightful blend of textures and spices. From the tender, fragrant rice to the perfectly cooked and flavorful vegetables, every bite is an explosion of taste.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 green chili, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 cup chopped mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, potatoes)
• 1 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1/2 cup yogurt
• 1/4 cup chopped coriander leaves
• 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
• Salt to taste
• 2 cups water or vegetable stock
• Fried onions (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Heat oil in a large pot or pressure cooker. Add the sliced onions and saute until golden brown.
2. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chili (if using) and saute for a minute.
3. Stir in turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook for a minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the chopped vegetables and cook for 5 minutes, or until slightly softened.
5. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become mushy and release their juices.
6. Stir in yogurt, coriander leaves, mint leaves, and salt to taste. Cook for another minute.
7. Add the soaked and drained basmati rice to the pot. Spread the rice evenly over the masala.
8. Pour in water or vegetable stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and fluffy. (If using a pressure cooker, cook for 5-7 whistles on low heat, then let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.)
9. Garnish with fried onions (optional) and serve hot. Enjoy your Easy Veg Biryani!