Spinach and Mushroom Biryani with Basmati Rice

Ingredients

• Basmati rice (1.5 cups)
• Ghee (3 tablespoons)
• Cumin seeds (1 teaspoon)
• Cinnamon stick (1 small)
• Cardamom pods (4)
• Cloves (4)
• Onion (1 large, chopped)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Ginger (1 inch, grated)
• Green chili (1, slit)
• Mushrooms (2 cups, sliced)
• Fresh spinach (4 cups, chopped)
• Vegetable broth (3 cups)
• Turmeric powder (1/2 teaspoon)
• Coriander powder (1 teaspoon)
• Garam masala (1 teaspoon)
• Salt (to taste)
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• Cashews (1/4 cup)
• Raisins (1/4 cup)

Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chili. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and soft.
4. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, stirring occasionally.
6. Introduce the soaked and drained basmati rice to the pot, stirring well to combine with the vegetable mixture.
7. Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure the rice and vegetables are evenly coated with the spices.
8. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
9. Meanwhile, heat a small pan over medium heat. Add the cashews and raisins, toasting them until the cashews are golden and the raisins are plump, about 3-4 minutes.
10. Once the biryani is cooked, remove it from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
11. Garnish the biryani with the toasted cashews, raisins, and freshly chopped cilantro before serving hot. Enjoy the rich flavors and textures of this delightful dish!