Veg Biryani Recipe | Veg Dum Biryani | Veg Pot Biryani

Veg Biryani, an aromatic and delicious rice dish, has been people's winning hearts for centuries with its rich blend of spices and textures. Veg Biryani is a fragrant and hearty rice-based dish that showcases a delightful assortment of vegetables, each contributing its own unique taste and texture. This Veg Biryani Recipe a delightful blend of fragrant basmati rice, colorful vegetables and a tempting combination of spices . Vegetables, such as carrots, peas, beans, potatoes and cauliflower, are carefully cooked to retain their complementary flavors well during the cooking process.  Join us on this culinary journey as we unravel the secrets behind these favorite veg biryani recipes and learn how to recreate their flavors in our own kitchens. So gather your spices, and learn how to recreate their enticing aromas and flavors in your own kitchen.

About Veg Biryani

Veg Biryani, short for Vegetable Biryani, is a delightful and aromatic Indian rice dish. That's a culinary masterpiece in vegetarian cuisine. This flavorful one-pot meal combines fragrant Basmati rice with an assortment of fresh vegetables and a medley of aromatic spices. 

First long-grain Basmati rice is washed and soaked to achieve its characteristic fluffy texture .  A rich blend of spices, including cardamom, cinnamon, cloves and bay leaves is prepared to infuse the dish with layers of complex flavors.  Next a variety of fresh vegetables such as carrots, peas, potatoes and bell peppers are sautéed along with onions and tomatoes to create a flavorful base. This mixture is then layered with the soaked rice .

 

To cook Veg Biryani, there are various methods to choose from . The Dum Biryani method involves slow-cooking the dish in a sealed pot, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Alternatively, you can prepare it in a pressure cooker for a quicker version . 

Garnished with fresh coriander leaves and fried onions, Veg Biryani is often served with cooling raita (yogurt sauce) or a side salad to balance its robust flavors .

Veg Biryani Recipe/ Vegetables Biryani Recipe

To cook Veg Biryani, there are various methods to choose from. 1. Dum Veg Biryani -The Dum Biryani method involves slow-cooking the dish in a sealed pot, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. 2. Pot Veg Biryani - you can prepare it in a pressure cooker for a quicker version.

Step by Step details

First:- Instant Pot Veg Biryani Recipe

Pot Veg Biryani is a delicious vegetarian dish that has won people's hearts with its rich taste and aromatic spices. This culinary delight is crafted with utmost care and expertise, ensuring a perfect blend of wholesome ingredients. Fragrant basmati rice, fully cooked, It is then layered with an assortment of fresh vegetables, such as carrots, peas, bell peppers, and potatoes, which infuse the biryani with their vibrant colors and textures. Slow-cooked in a traditional pot, the Pot Veg Biryani captures the essence of Indian cuisine, providing a wholesome and satisfying meal that is loved by both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Below is the step by step cooking method of Pot Veg Biryani.

(Preparation Time: 20-25 Minutes    Cook Time: 45-50 Minutes   Servings : 5 People.)

Ingredients

To make Instant Pot Veg Biryani for  you will need the following Ingredients:-

• 1. Basmati rice -           3 cups
• 2. Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers, cauliflower, beans, etc.) - 3 cups, chopped
• 3. Onion: -                    2, medium-sized
• 4. Tomato: -                  2, medium-sized
• 5. Ginger: -                  1-inch piece, grated
• 6. Garlic: -                   4-5 cloves, minced
• 7. Green chilies: -        2, slit lengthwise (adjust according to spice preference)
• 8. Fresh mint leaves: - 1/2 cup, chopped
• 9. Fresh cilantro (coriander leaves): - 1/2 cup, chopped
• 10. Plain yogurt: -      1/2 cup
• 11. Ghee (clarified butter): - 2 tablespoons
• 12. Cooking oil :-        2 tablespoons
• 13. Bay leaves :- 2
• 14. Cinnamon stick :- 1-inch piece
• 15. Cloves: - 4
• 16. Cardamom pods: - 4
• 17. Cumin seeds: - 1 teaspoon
• 18. Turmeric powder: - 1/2 teaspoon
• 19. Red chili powder: - 1/2 teaspoon (adjust according to spice preference)
• 20. Biryani masala powder: - 2 teaspoons
• 21. Salt :- to taste
• 22. Water: - 4 cups

Process of Making

Step 1:- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Then soak the rice in water for about 20 to 30minutes. This helps remove excess starch and ensures the grains cook evenly. After soaking the rice, drain the water and keep aside.

Step 2:- Turn on the Instant Pot and select the sauté mode. Add ghee and cooking oil to the pot and allow them to heat up.

Step 3:- Once the oil is hot, add bay leaves, a cinnamon stick, cloves, and cardamom pods to the pot. Fry the whole spices for about a minute until they start to emit aromas .

Step 4:- Add cumin seeds to the pot and let them sizzle for a few seconds until they crackle.

Step 5:- It's time to add the sliced onions to the pot. Sauté the onions until they turn golden brown, stirring occasionally .

Step 6:- add grated ginger, minced garlic, and slit green chilies to the pot. Sauté for another minute until the raw smell of the ginger and garlic disappears.

Step 7:- Add chopped tomatoes to the pot and cook them until they become soft and mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 8:- Once the tomatoes are cooked, add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and biryani masala powder to the pot. Mix everything well and cook for about a minute to allow the spices to release their flavors.

Step 9:- Add the mixed vegaetables carrots, peas, bell peppers, cauliflower, beans, etc. to the pot. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spice mixture . Sauté for 2-3 minutes to lightly cook the vegetables while retaining their crunch.

Step 10:-Turn off the sauté mode. Add plain yogurt, chopped mint leaves, chopped cilantro (coriander leaves), and salt to the pot. Give everything a good mix, ensuring the vegetables are well coated with the yogurt and spices.

Step 11:- Drain the soaked rice and add it to the Instant Pot, gently spreading it over the vegetable mixture. Be careful not to stir too much to avoid breaking the rice grains.

Step 12:- Pour water into the pot. The water level should be about 1 inch above the rice-vegetable mixture. Stir gently to distribute the water evenly.

Step 13:- Close the Instant Pot with the lid and ensure that the steam release valve is set to the sealing position.

Step 14:- Set the Instant Pot to the pressure cook mode and adjust the cooking time to 5 minutes on high pressure.

Step 15:- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. This helps the flavors to meld together and the rice to continue cooking gently.

Step 15:- After the natural release, carefully perform a quick release of the remaining pressure by turning the steam release valve to the venting position. Be cautious of the hot steam and follow the safety instructions for your Instant Pot.

Step 16:- Open the Instant Pot and gently fluff the biryani with a fork, ensuring that the rice and vegetables are well mixed. This helps distribute the flavors and prevents the rice from clumping together.

Step 17:- The Instant Pot Veg Biryani is now ready to be served. Spoon it onto plates or a serving platter and garnish with additional chopped cilantro if desired.

  Enjoy the fragrant and flavorful biryani with your family and friend.

Expert Tips

With these expert tips, you'll be able to make a memorable Pot Veg Biryani that everyone will enjoy!

• Vegetable selection:- Choose a variety of colorful and fresh vegetables for your biryani . Include vegetables like carrots, peas, beans, cauliflower, bell peppers, and potatoes.

• Spice mix:- Make a flavorful spice mix by grinding whole spices like cumin, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods and cloves. This adds a distinct aroma and depth of flavor to your biryani .

• Marination for vegetables:- Marinate the vegetables in a mixture of yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, red chili powder, and lemon juice for about 30 minutes before cooking. This step enhances the flavor and tenderness of the vegetables.

• Use good quality ghee:- Opt for good-quality ghee (clarified butter) for sautéing the onions and cooking the biryani.

• Layer with fried onions:- Add a layer of crispy fried onions between the rice and vegetable layers. This provides a delightful crunch and adds a caramelized sweetness to the biryani.

• Monitor heat levels:- Pay attention to the heat levels while cooking. Adjust the flame to low when simmering the vegetable gravy and rice. This ensures that the biryani cooks evenly without scorching.

• Fluff the rice gently:- After the biryani is cooked, gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. Avoid excessive stirring to maintain the integrity of the layers.

• Resting time:- Allow the pot veg biryani to rest, covered, for about 10-15 minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld and the rice to absorb any remaining moisture.

• Serve with accompaniments:- Serve the pot veg biryani with raita, such as cucumber or onion raita, along with papadums and a fresh salad.

Remember, the key to a great pot veg biryani lies in the balance of flavors, perfect texture of rice, and the aromatic combination of spices.

Related Recipe

Mutton Biriyani Recipe: Easy, Tasty and Informational

Second:-  Dum Veg Biryani Recipe

(Preparation Time: 30 minutes,      Cook Time: 1 hour ,     Servings : 5 people.)

Ingredients 

To make Dum Veg Biryani for you will need the following Ingredients:-

•  Basmati rice:- 2 cups
• Water:- 4 cups(for cooking rice)
• Ghee:- 2 tablespoons (clarified butter)
• Onion:- 1 large thinly sliced
• Green chilies :- 2 , slit lengthwise
• Ginger-garlic paste:-1 tablespoon
• Mixed vegetables:- 1 cup (carrots, beans, peas, cauliflower)
• Plain yogurt :- 1 cup
• Turmeric powder :- 1 teaspoon
• Red chili powder :- 1 teaspoon
• Biryani masala powder :- 1 teaspoon
• Salt:- to taste
• Mint leaves :- A handful of chopped
• Coriander leaves :- A handful of chopped
• Saffron strands:- A pinch of
• Warm milk :- 2 tablespoons

Process of Making

Cook the Rice

Step 1:- Rinse 2 cups of basmati rice under running water until the water runs clear. After Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes.

Step 2:- In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add salt to the boiling water.

Step 3:- Drain the soaked rice and add it to the boiling water. Cook the rice until it is 70-80% done, meaning the grains are firm but mostly cooked.

Step 4:- Drain the partially cooked rice and set it aside.

Cook the Vegetables

Step 5:- Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a large pan or skillet over medium heat.

Step 6:- Add the thinly sliced onion and slit green chilies to the pan. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.

Step 7:- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute until the raw smell disappears.

Step 8:- Add the mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, peas, cauliflower) to the pan. Sauté for a few minutes until they are partially cooked.

Make Vegetable Gravy

Step 9:- In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of plain yogurt, 1 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon red chili powder, 1 teaspoon biryani masala powder, and salt to taste.

Step 10:- Pour the yogurt mixture into the pan with the cooked vegetables. Stir well to combine. Cook for a few minutes until the flavors meld together and the vegetables are cooked through.

Infuse Saffron in Milk

Step 11:- In a small bowl, take a pinch of saffron strands and add 2 tablespoons of warm milk. Let it sit for a few minutes to infuse the milk with saffron's color and aroma.

Assemble and Layer

Step 12:- Take a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep oven-safe dish. Start by spreading a layer of partially cooked rice at the bottom of the pot.

Step 13:- Next, add a layer of the vegetable gravy over the rice.

Step 14:- Continue layering, alternating between rice and vegetable gravy until all the rice and gravy are used. End with a layer of rice on top.

Step 15:- Sprinkle the chopped mint leaves and coriander leaves over the top layer of rice.

Step 16:- Drizzle the saffron-infused milk evenly over the rice.

Dum Cooking

Step 17:- Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) or heat a tawa (griddle) on the stovetop .

Step 18:- Cover the pot tightly with a lid or seal it with aluminum foil to create a tight seal.

Step 19:- Place the pot in the hot pan. Cook for 25-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the rice to fully cook .

Serve

Step 20:- Remove the pot from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the biryani to settle.

Step 21:- Mix the layers and gently lift the rice with a spoon.

Step 22:- Serve the Dum Veg Biryani hot, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.

Step 23:- Accompany it with raita (yogurt dip), salad, or pickle for a complete and delicious meal.

Enjoy the flavorful and aromatic Dum Veg Biryani with its layers of perfectly cooked rice, vegetables, and spices. It's a delightful dish to savor and share with family and friends!

Expert Tips

This following these expert tips, you can prepare a delicious and authentic Dum Veg Biryani .

Vegetable selection:- Choose a variety of fresh and seasonal vegetables for your biryani. This adds a vibrant and colorful touch to the dish. You can include carrots, beans, peas, cauliflower, potatoes, or any other vegetables of your choice.

Spice up the vegetable gravy:- While making the vegetable gravy, take the opportunity to enhance the flavors. Add whole spices like cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaves during the cooking process. This infuses the gravy with aromatic notes.

Marination for extra flavor:- Consider marinating the vegetables in yogurt and spices for a short period before cooking. This step helps in tenderizing the vegetables and allows them to absorb the flavors of the marinade.

Saffron infusion technique:- To achieve a beautiful golden color and subtle aroma, soak the saffron strands in warm milk and let them infuse for a few minutes. Then drizzle this saffron-infused milk over the rice layers before dum cooking.

Quality of ghee:- Use good-quality ghee (clarified butter) for sautéing the onions and preparing the biryani. The richness and nutty flavor of high-quality ghee greatly contribute to the overall taste of the dish .

Add fried nuts and raisins:- For an extra touch of indulgence, fry a handful of cashews, almonds, and raisins in ghee until they turn golden. Sprinkle these fried nuts and raisins on top of the biryani layers. They add a delightful crunch and sweetness to the dish.

Perfectly cooked rice:- Ensure that the rice is cooked to perfection, neither undercooked nor overcooked. Each grain should be separate and fluffy. Keep a close eye on the rice while cooking to achieve the desired texture .

Customization of spices:- Biryani is a versatile dish, and you can adjust the spice levels to suit your preferences. If you prefer lighter biryani, reduce the amount of biryani masala. Conversely, if you prefer it spicier, increase the quantities accordingly.

Balance the flavors:- Pay attention to achieving a balance of flavors in your biryani. Taste and adjust the seasoning, salt, and spices as needed during the cooking process to ensure a well-rounded and harmonious taste.

Practice patience:- Dum cooking requires patience and a slow cooking process. Allow the biryani to cook on low heat for the specified time to allow the flavors to meld together and the rice to absorb the essence of the spices.

Remember, making the best dum vegetable biryani takes practice and experimentation. Don't be afraid to adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences and enjoy the journey of creating a delicious and aromatic biryani masterpiece.

Storage and Reheating

Always use your judgment and preferences when storing and reheating as the method chosen can affect the texture of aloo parathas food.

Storage
Cooling Composure:- After creating the aromatic Veg Biryani let it cool for about 15-20 minutes. This helps the flavors settle and ensures the rice maintains its distinct texture.

Container Choice:- Once cooled transfer the Veg Biryani into an airtight container. Choose a container with a tight-fitting lid to maintain the moisture and keep the flavors intact.

Refrigeration Retreat:- Store the container of Veg Biryani in the refrigerator. This not only keeps it safe for consumption but also allows the spices to infuse more deeply into the dish.

Separate Storage:- If you have raita or any side dishes store them separately to maintain their freshness. Add them when serving the reheated biryani.

Consume Timely:- Veg Biryani is at its best when consumed within 2/3 days. Beyond that while still tasty, the texture may undergo subtle changes.


Reheating
Pan :- For a stovetop revival, use a pan or a kadai. Add a bit of water to create steam, gently heat the Veg Biryani, and stir occasionally to ensure even warming.

Oven :- Preheat your oven to around 350°F. Place the Veg Biryani in an oven safe dish, cover it with foil to retain moisture and heat for about 15 to 20 minutes.

Microwave :- The microwave is your swift solution. Transfer a portion of Veg Biryani to a microwave safe bowl, cover it and heat in short intervals, stirring between each burst.

Layered Perfection:- If your biryani has layers, consider reheating the rice and vegetables separately and layering them when serving. This ensures each component maintains its integrity.

Garnish:- Before serving add a sprinkle of fresh coriander, a handful of fried onions or a squeeze of lime. It's not just about reheating, it's about enhancing the presentation .

Serve Warm:- Veg Biryani is best enjoyed when served warm. Whether on a platter or in individual servings, let each spoonful be a delightful mix of flavors.

Veg Biryani is a culinary masterpiece, so savor each bite. Whether freshly made or reheated, let the aromatic spices and colorful vegetables make your Veg Biryani meal a flavorful experience. Enjoy your Veg Biryani.

Nutrition Value 

(per 100 grams approximate values):-

• Calories:- Around 150-200 calories
• Carbohydrates:- 25-30 grams
• Protein:- 3-5 grams
• Fat:- 3-5 grams
• Fiber:- 1-3 grams
• Vitamin A:- 100-200 micrograms
• Vitamin C:- 5-10 milligrams
• Vitamin K:- 1-5 micrograms

It's important to note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and cooking methods used.

Conclusion

Both Pot Veg Biryani Recipe and Dum Veg Biryani Recipe are delicious variations of the popular Veg Biryani dish. Both methods require attention to detail, from selecting quality ingredients to balancing the spices and layering the components. The choice between Pot Veg Biryani and Dum Veg Biryani ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired cooking style. 

Which ever method you choose, Veg Biryani Recipe is a versatile and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with raita, pickle, or salad. Its aromatic flavors and vibrant colors make it a crowd-pleasing option for gatherings and special occasions. With practice and creativity, you can tailor the recipe to suit your taste preferences, experimenting with different vegetables, spices, and garnishes.

FAQs for Veg Biryani Recipe Related

Ques :- How do you reduce bitterness in biryani?

Ans :- Firstly, ensure that you thoroughly rinse the rice to eliminate excess starch. Soaking the rice in water for 20-30 minutes prior to cooking can also help reduce bitterness. Adding a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to the rice water can counteract bitterness due to their acidity . Moreover, exercise caution with spices such as fenugreek or mustard seeds, as excessive usage can contribute to bitterness.

Ques :- Is vegetable biryani healthy or not?
Ans :- Generally, Veg biryani is a nutritious dish. It a variety of vegetables that provide essential nutrients, fiber and antioxidants. The overall healthfulness of vegetable biryani depends on factors like the cooking method employed, the type and amount of oil used, and the proportion of vegetables to rice.

Ques :- What makes biryani smell good?
Ans :- The aromatic blend of spices, including cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaves, along with the infusion of ginger, garlic, onions, and the slow cooking process, creates the tantalizing aroma of biryani.

Ques :- Is veg biryani junk food?
Ans :- No, vegetable biryani is not typically considered junk food. It is a traditional and flavorful dish made with a combination of vegetables, rice, and aromatic spices, providing essential nutrients.

Ques :- Which spice is best for biryani?
Ans :- The best spice for biryani depends on personal preference, but some popular choices include cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaves. These spices add depth, aroma, and flavor to the biryani, creating a rich and enticing taste experience.

Ques :- How many people eat 1 kg veg biryani?
Ans :- As a general guideline, approximately 5-6 people can be served a moderate portion of veg biryani with 1 kg of ingredients. However, this can vary depending on the specific recipe and the preferences of the individuals being served.

Ques :- Is homemade veg biryani healthy?
Ans :- Homemade veg biryani can be a healthy choice when prepared with nutritious ingredients such as vegetables, whole grains, and limited oil. By controlling the cooking methods and portion sizes, it can be a wholesome and balanced meal option.

Which rice is best for biryani?
Ans.:- Basmati rice is commonly considered the best choice for biryani. It has long, slender grains with a distinct aroma and fluffy texture when cooked. Basmati rice lends a delicate and fragrant taste to biryani, making it a popular and preferred option for this dish.

Is biryani made with ghee or oil?
Ans.:- Biryani can be made with either ghee or oil, depending on individual preference and regional variations. Ghee is commonly used for its rich and aromatic flavor, while oil can be used as a healthier alternative.

What is the most important ingredient in biryani?
Ans.:- The most important ingredient in biryani is arguably the combination of aromatic spices. Spices like cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaves create the distinct and flavorful profile of biryani. They add depth, aroma, and complexity to the dish, making them crucial for achieving an authentic and delicious biryani .