Looking for a wholesome, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful vegetarian meal? Say hello to Veg Biryani, the crown jewel of Indian rice dishes. It’s a fragrant, spiced rice layered with colorful vegetables, herbs, and sometimes nuts—all cooked to perfection in one pot.
Is biryani hard to make? Not at all—this recipe keeps it simple while staying true to authentic Indian flavor.
🍚 What Is Veg Biryani?
Vegetable biryani is a South Asian dish made by cooking long-grain basmati rice with vegetables, whole spices, herbs, and saffron. Traditionally, biryani is layered and slow-cooked (dum style), but this version offers a quick and easy approach perfect for home kitchens.
“Biryani is more than a dish—it’s a celebration in every bite.”
🥕 Ingredients You’ll Need
🌾 For the Rice
- 1 ½ cups basmati rice
- 4 cups water
- 2–3 green cardamoms
- 1 bay leaf
- 3–4 cloves
- Salt, to taste
🥦 For the Vegetable Masala
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrot, beans, peas, cauliflower)
- 1 medium tomato, chopped
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp biryani masala or garam masala
- ½ tsp red chili powder
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tbsp yogurt
- Chopped mint and cilantro leaves
🧈 Optional Toppings
- 2 tbsp fried onions
- Few strands of saffron, soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk
- 1 tbsp toasted cashews (for garnish)
👩🍳 How to Make Veg Biryani (Step-by-Step)
🔹 Step 1: Soak and cook the rice
Rinse and soak basmati rice for 20–30 minutes. Boil with spices until 90% cooked. Drain and set aside.
🔹 Step 2: Prepare the vegetable masala
Heat oil or ghee in a pan. Sauté onions until golden brown. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until aromatic. Mix in chopped veggies, spices, tomato, and salt. Cook until veggies are slightly tender. Stir in yogurt, mint, and cilantro.
🔹 Step 3: Layer and cook
In a deep pot or Dutch oven:
- Add a layer of rice
- Spoon in the vegetable mixture
- Repeat until all used
Top with saffron milk, fried onions, and cashews.
Cover tightly and cook on low heat for 15–20 minutes (or bake at 350°F for 20 minutes if using an oven-safe dish).
Pro Tip: Seal the lid with foil or dough for authentic dum-style cooking!
💡 Tips & Variations
- Use brown basmati rice for extra fiber
- Swap yogurt with coconut milk for a dairy-free version
- Add paneer cubes for more protein
- Use an Instant Pot for convenience (sauté then pressure cook for 6 minutes)
🥄 Serving Suggestions
Veg Biryani is best enjoyed with:
- Raita (yogurt with cucumber/onions)
- Papad or crispy chips
- Pickles or lemon wedges
📦 Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freezer: Freeze cooled biryani for up to 1 month
- Reheat: Steam or microwave with a splash of water to retain moisture
✅ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: 8g
- Carbs: 48g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 5g
- Rich in vitamin A, C, and iron
Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Dish
Veg Biryani is a showstopper—whether you’re making it for family dinner, guests, or festive occasions. It’s colorful, aromatic, and endlessly customizable, making it a staple for every home cook’s recipe box.
Ready to impress your tastebuds and dinner guests? Make this Veg Biryani tonight!
