Authentic Vegetable Biryani with Basmati Rice

Ingredients

• Fried onions (1/2 cup)
• Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, finely chopped)
• Ghee (clarified butter) (2 tablespoons)
• Salt (to taste)
• Cardamom pods (4)
• Cloves (4)
• Cinnamon stick (1)
• Bay leaf (1)
• Cumin seeds (1 teaspoon)
• Garam masala powder (1 teaspoon)
• Turmeric powder (1/2 teaspoon)
• Biryani masala powder (2 tablespoons)
• Yogurt (1/2 cup)
• Green chili (2, finely chopped)
• Ginger (1 inch piece, finely chopped)
• Tomato (1, finely chopped)
• Onion (1, finely chopped)
• Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, cauliflower, beans, etc.) (2 cups)
• Basmati rice (2 cups)

Instructions

1. Begin by washing the basmati rice under running water until it runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes and then drain it thoroughly.
2. In a large pot, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cloves, and cardamom pods. Sauté for a minute, allowing the spices to release their aromas.
3. Add the finely chopped onions and cook them until they turn a golden brown color.
4. Next, add the finely chopped ginger and green chili. Sauté the mixture for another minute.
5. Add the finely chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and blend well with the other ingredients.
6. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 5 minutes, ensuring they are well-coated with the spices.
7. Add the biryani masala powder, turmeric powder, garam masala powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure every grain of rice will be infused with flavor.
8. Add the soaked and drained basmati rice. Stir gently, making sure not to break the grains, and ensure the rice is well combined with the vegetables and spices.
9. Pour in 4 cups of water 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 cooked and the water is fully absorbed.
10. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the rice to finish cooking in its own steam.
11. Using a fork, gently fluff the rice. Garnish with a sprinkling of fresh cilantro and crispy fried onions.
12. Serve your authentic Vegetable Biryani hot, and savor the rich, complex flavors that this iconic Indian dish has to offer.