Delicious veg masala Biryani Recipe:A Flavor- Packed vegetarian Delight

Delicious veg masala Biryani Recipe:A Flavor- Packed vegetarian Delight

Learn how to make authentic Veg Masala Biryani at home with this easy and aromatic recipe. Perfect for festive meals or weekend dinners, packed with spices, veggies, and basmati rice..

Delicious Veg Masala Biryani Recipe – A Flavorful Vegetarian Feast

Biryani holds a special place in Indian cuisine, known for its rich aroma, layered textures, and vibrant flavors. While traditionally associated with meat, Veg Masala Biryani is a delightful vegetarian twist that combines long-grained basmati rice with mixed vegetables, aromatic spices, and herbs. Whether for a festival, special occasion, or weekend dinner, this biryani is a showstopper on any dining table.

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Ingredients

For Rice:

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 6 cups water
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 green cardamoms
• 3 cloves
• 1 small cinnamon stick
• Salt to taste

For Veg Masala:

• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, potatoes)
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1/2 cup curd (yogurt)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander and mint leaves (a handful each)

For Layering:

• A few saffron strands soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk
• 1 tbsp ghee
• Fried onions (optional for garnish)

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Preparation Steps

1. Cook the Rice:

• Wash basmati rice until the water runs clear. Soak for 20 minutes.
• Boil water in a pot with whole spices and salt.
• Add rice and cook until 90% done. Drain and keep aside.

2. Prepare the Veg Masala:

• Heat oil/ghee in a deep pan. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, and onions. Sauté until golden brown.
• Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute.
• Add chopped vegetables and sauté for 5-6 minutes.
• Add tomatoes and green chilies. Cook until tomatoes soften.
• Mix in turmeric, chili powder, coriander powder, and salt.
• Add curd, cook for 3-4 minutes until oil separates.
• Sprinkle garam masala and add fresh coriander and mint.

3. Layering the Biryani:

• In a thick-bottomed pot, spread a layer of vegetable masala.
• Add a layer of cooked rice over it.
• Drizzle some saffron milk, ghee, and fried onions (optional).
• Repeat layers as needed, finishing with rice on top.
• Cover the pot tightly. Cook on low flame (dum) for 10-15 minutes.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve Veg Masala Biryani hot with:

• Raita (curd with cucumber/onion)
• Papad or salad
• Pickle or chutney

It’s a complete meal in itself that is aromatic, colorful, and brimming with flavors.

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Tips for Perfect Biryani

• Use aged basmati rice for long, fluffy grains.
• Don’t overcook the vegetables—they should remain slightly firm.
• Saffron adds a royal touch; don’t skip it if you want an authentic flavor.
• Dum cooking enhances flavor—seal the pot well or use foil under the lid.

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Conclusion

Veg Masala Biryani is more than just a rice dish—it’s a celebration of spices, textures, and tradition. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just exploring meatless meals, this biryani promises a delicious experience that everyone at the table will love. Try this recipe once, and it might just become your family’s favorite!

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