Vegetable Pulao / Biryani: Aromatic and Flavorful Rice Dish - South Indian food

Vegetable Pulao / Biryani Recipe

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
• Serving Suggestions
• Tips for Perfect Vegetable Pulao/Biryani
• Conclusion

Introduction

Vegetable Casserole (or Biryani) is a fragrant and delicious one-pot rice dish, cooked with aromatic spices, fresh vegetables and basmati rice ... Unlike traditional biryani, which includes layering, this version simplifies the process while maintaining a rich taste ... It is right for the opportunity of lunch, dinner or festivals..

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1.5 cup basmati rice (soaked for 30 minutes)
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, peas, potatoes, cauliflower)
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 2 tomatoes (chopped)
• 1/4 cup yogurt (for optional, biryani)
• 2 green chillies (slit)
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 cup fresh coriander and mint leaves

Whole Spices:

• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cloves
• 2 cardamom pods
• 1 inch cinnamon stick
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 star anis (optional)

Powdered Spices:

• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp coriander powder
• Salt to taste

For Garnish:

• Fried onions (birista)
• Lemon wedges
• Cashews & raisins (fried)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Rice

• Rinse and soak basmati rice for 30 minutes.
• Parboil rice with 1 teaspoon salt and whole spices (bay leaf, cardamom, cloves) is cooked up to 70%. Drain and set one side.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables & Spices

1. Heat 3 tbsp ghee/oil in a deep pan.
2. Add whole spices (cumin, cinnamon, star anise) and sauté for 30 sec.
3. Add sliced onions, green chilies, and ginger-garlic paste. Fry until golden.
4. Add chopped tomatoes, cook until soft.
5. Stir in turmeric, chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala.

Step 3: Cook Vegetables

• Add mixed vegetables, sauté for 3-4 mins.
• (For biryani) Mix in yogurt for richness.
• Add 1/4 cup water, cover, and cook until veggies are tender.

Step 4: Layering (Biryani Style) or Mixing (Pulao Style)

• Pulao: Mix parboiled rice with veggies, sprinkle mint/coriander, and cook on low heat for 10 mins.
• Biryani: Layer rice and veggies, top with fried onions, herbs, and saffron milk. Seal with dough (dum cooking) for 15-20 mins.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

• Fluff rice, garnish with fried nuts, raisins, and lemon.
• Serve hot with raita or curry.

Serving Suggestions

Cucumber raita, chilli sails, or pairing with boiled eggs. Serve with papad or pickle for additional crunch.

Tips for Perfect Vegetable Pulao/Biryani

• Use aged basmati rice for long grains.
• Soak rice to avoid rice.
• Adjust the level of spice to taste.
• Dum cooking biryani enhances taste.

Conclusion

Vegetable Casserole/Biryani is a versatile dish that balances spices, textures and nutrition. Whether you like the simplicity of casserole or the prosperity of Biryani, this recipe guarantees a delicious food every time ...