- September 19, 2025
Cauliflower Biryani Recipe – A Flavorful & Healthy Vegetarian Biryani
Biryani is an evergreen dish that defines celebration, flavors, and aromas in Indian cuisine. While rice and meat usually dominate biryani recipes, vegetarian versions like Cauliflower Biryani Recipe are becoming increasingly popular. Known as Gobi Biryani in many Indian households, this dish is not only healthy but also rich in spices, making it a perfect one-pot meal.
If you’re looking for a healthy cauliflower biryani option that brings the same warmth and taste as traditional biryani, this guide is for you. From cauliflower biryani South Indian style to cauliflower dum biryani, we will cover step-by-step instructions, variations, serving tips, and nutritional value.
Why Try Cauliflower Biryani?
Cauliflower (gobi) is one of the most versatile vegetables. It is low in calories, rich in fiber, and packed with vitamins and minerals. When blended with aromatic spices and basmati rice, cauliflower turns into a delightful dish that is both nutritious and satisfying.
Benefits of cauliflower biryani include:
Low-Calorie Meal – Ideal for weight-conscious individuals.
Rich in Antioxidants – Helps boost immunity.
High Fiber Content – Aids digestion and keeps you full longer.
Perfect for Vegetarians – A hearty and flavorful main dish.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, festive gathering, or a quick weekday lunch, cauliflower biryani Indian style is a winner.
Ingredients for Cauliflower Biryani
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare spicy cauliflower biryani at home:
Main Ingredients
2 cups basmati rice (soaked for 30 minutes)
2 cups cauliflower florets (cleaned and blanched)
2 medium onions (thinly sliced)
2 tomatoes (chopped)
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
2 green chilies (slit)
½ cup curd/yogurt
3 tablespoons oil or ghee
Whole Spices
1 bay leaf
1 cinnamon stick
2–3 cloves
2 green cardamoms
1 star anise
½ teaspoon cumin seeds
Spice Powders
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon red chili powder
2 teaspoons biryani masala powder
½ teaspoon garam masala
Salt – as required
Herbs & Garnish
Fresh coriander leaves (chopped)
Fresh mint leaves (a handful)
Fried onions (optional)
Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon
Step-by-Step Preparation of Cauliflower Biryani
Here’s the cauliflower biryani step by step guide:
Step 1 – Preparing the Rice
Wash and soak basmati rice for at least 30 minutes.
Boil water in a deep pot, add whole spices (bay leaf, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon), and a pinch of salt.
Cook rice until 70% done (grains should be firm, not mushy). Drain and set aside.
Step 2 – Cooking Cauliflower Florets
Blanch the cauliflower florets in hot water with a little salt and turmeric for 3–4 minutes.
Drain and keep aside. This removes impurities and prevents a raw smell.
Step 3 – Making the Masala
Heat oil or ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan.
Add cumin seeds, onions, and fry until golden brown.
Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté until raw aroma fades.
Add tomatoes and cook until they turn mushy.
Now add turmeric powder, red chili powder, biryani masala, and salt. Stir well.
Mix in blanched cauliflower florets and curd. Cook for 5–6 minutes until well-coated with masala.
Step 4 – Layering the Biryani
Grease a heavy-bottomed vessel with ghee.
Spread a layer of half the rice, then add the prepared cauliflower masala.
Top with remaining rice.
Sprinkle coriander, mint, and fried onions. Drizzle lemon juice.
Cover tightly (use dough to seal edges if making cauliflower dum biryani).
Step 5 – Dum Cooking
Place the sealed pot on a low flame for 20–25 minutes.
Alternatively, place a tawa (flat pan) under the pot to prevent burning.
Once done, gently fluff with a fork.
Your easy cauliflower biryani recipe is ready to serve!
Variations of Cauliflower Biryani
1. Cauliflower Dum Biryani
Use the traditional dum cooking method by sealing the pot with dough.
Cook on slow heat for authentic flavors.
2. Cauliflower Biryani South Indian Style
Add curry leaves, coconut milk, and roasted cashews for a South Indian twist.
Serve with coconut chutney or raita.
3. Cauliflower Biryani Without Rice
Replace basmati rice with millets, quinoa, or even rolled oats for a healthier version.
This makes it a great choice for weight watchers.
4. Cauliflower Biryani in Pressure Cooker
Prepare masala as above, layer rice and masala, add water (1.5 cups), and pressure cook for 2 whistles.
This is a quick cauliflower biryani method for busy days.
5. Vegetable Cauliflower Biryani
Along with cauliflower, add carrots, beans, peas, and potatoes.
A colorful, nutrient-packed version loved by kids.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with cucumber raita, onion-tomato salad, or plain curd.
Pair with papad, pickle, or boiled egg for a complete meal.
For special occasions, serve with mirchi ka salan or dalcha.
Nutrition Value of Cauliflower Biryani (per serving – 1 medium bowl)
Calories: 320–350 kcal
Carbohydrates: 55 g
Protein: 8 g
Fat: 9 g
Fiber: 7 g
Vitamin C: 50% of daily requirement
Iron: 12% of daily requirement
Calcium: 8% of daily requirement
This makes cauliflower biryani healthy and suitable for both lunch and dinner. The presence of fiber-rich cauliflower and rice gives it a perfect balance of energy and nutrients.
Tips for the Perfect Cauliflower Biryani
Always blanch cauliflower to avoid raw smell.
Use aged basmati rice for long, fluffy grains.
Adjust spice levels to taste – for a spicy cauliflower biryani, increase red chili powder.
For richer flavor, add saffron milk while layering.
Dum cooking enhances aroma and makes biryani restaurant-style.
Interesting Facts
The Cauliflower Biryani Recipe is proof that vegetarian biryanis can be just as delicious and satisfying as their meat-based counterparts. With its aromatic spices, tender cauliflower florets, and fluffy rice, this biryani is perfect for any occasion. Variations like cauliflower biryani South Indian style, cauliflower dum biryani, and cauliflower biryani without rice make it versatile for every household.
Next time you crave biryani, try this cauliflower biryani Indian style – a wholesome, flavorful dish that brings health and taste together in one pot.
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