Veg Biryani Recipe (Vegetable Biryani) – Aromatic, Flavorful & Easy to Make

Veg Biryani (also called Vegetable Biryani) is a popular Indian rice recipe made with basmati rice, mixed vegetables, and fragrant biryani spices. This dish is loved worldwide for its aromatic flavors, rich taste, and beautiful presentation. A well-cooked veg biryani is perfect for lunch, dinner, or special occasions like weddings, festivals, and family gatherings.

Whether you are a vegetarian or just looking for a wholesome one-pot meal, this easy veg biryani recipe is sure to impress. The magic lies in the layers of rice and masala, slow-cooked to perfection using the traditional dum biryani method.

Ingredients for Veg Biryani (Serves 4)

For Rice:

• 2 cups Basmati rice (long grain rice, soaked for 30 minutes)

• 4 cups water

• 2–3 cloves

• 2–3 green cardamoms

• 1 bay leaf

• 1-inch cinnamon stick

• 1 tsp salt

For Vegetable Masala:

• 2 tbsp oil or ghee

• 1 large onion (thinly sliced)

• 1 large tomato (chopped)

• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

• 1 cup cauliflower florets

• 1 cup diced carrots

• 1 cup green beans

• 1 cup green peas

• 2 green chilies (slit)

• ½ cup curd (yogurt)

• 2 tsp Biryani Masala powder

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp red chili powder

• 1 tsp coriander powder

• ½ tsp garam masala powder

• Salt to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh coriander leaves (chopped)

• Fresh mint leaves (chopped)

• Fried onions (optional)

• 2 tbsp warm milk with a pinch of saffron (for color & aroma)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

1. Rinse and soak basmati rice for 30 minutes.

2. In a large pot, boil 4 cups water with cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, bay leaf, and salt.

3. Add soaked rice and cook until 70% done (rice should still have a bite).

4. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetable Masala

1. Heat ghee or oil in a heavy-bottomed pan.

2. Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.

3. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies; sauté until raw smell disappears.

4. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft.

5. Add turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, Biryani Masala, and salt. Mix well.

6. Add all vegetables (cauliflower, carrots, beans, peas) and stir fry for 2–3 minutes.

7. Add yogurt, mix well, and cook until vegetables are 70% cooked.

Step 3: Layering the Veg Biryani

1. In a large dum biryani pot or heavy-bottom pan, spread a layer of half-cooked rice.

2. Add a layer of vegetable masala.

3. Sprinkle mint leaves, coriander leaves, fried onions, and saffron milk.

4. Repeat the layers until all rice and masala are used.

5. Cover with a tight-fitting lid (seal with dough for authentic dum cooking).

Step 4: Dum Cooking

1. Place the biryani pot on low heat for 20–25 minutes.

2. Alternatively, place the pot over a tawa (griddle) to avoid direct heat burning.

3. Once done, fluff gently with a fork to mix layers without breaking rice grains.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve veg biryani hot with raita (yogurt dip), salad, or papad.

• Pair with mirchi ka salan or pickle for an authentic restaurant-style experience.

Occasions to Make Veg Biryani

• Festivals: Diwali, Eid, Holi, Navratri

• Weddings & Parties: Perfect as a main course

• Weekend Lunch/Dinner: Treat for the family

• Potluck & Get-together: Easy to prepare in large quantities

• Special Date Night at Home: Romantic and aromatic

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)

Pro Tips for Perfect Veg Biryani

• Always use aged basmati rice for best texture.

• Fry onions until crispy golden brown for rich flavor.

• Use saffron milk for royal aroma and beautiful color.

• Cook on low heat for perfect dum biryani.

• Avoid overcooking vegetables to keep them fresh and crunchy.

This homemade veg biryani recipe is not just a dish but a celebration of flavors, aromas, and textures. Whether you make it for a festival, a party, or a cozy family dinner, its magic never fails to impress. With its restaurant-style taste and easy steps, this one-pot vegetable biryani will surely become your go-to Indian rice recipe.