Easy Vegan Biryani Recipe

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Imagine a fluffy, fragrant basmati rice infused with warm spices, tender vegetables, and crunchy nuts, all layered to perfection. Every spoonful bursts with bold flavors of cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, and saffron, making this Vegan Biryani a dish that’s as satisfying as it is stunning. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or just craving something extraordinary, this dish is a must-try!

Ingredients

For the Rice:

✅ 1 ½ cups basmati rice (rinsed & soaked for 20 minutes)
✅ 3 cups water
✅ 1 bay leaf
✅ 2 cardamom pods
✅ 1 small cinnamon stick
✅ ½ tsp salt

For the Biryani Base:

✅ 2 tbsp oil (coconut, vegetable, or avocado)
✅ 1 large onion, thinly sliced
✅ 3 cloves garlic, minced
✅ 1-inch ginger, grated
✅ 1 small tomato, finely chopped
✅ 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers, potatoes)
✅ ½ cup coconut milk (optional, for richness)
✅ ½ cup canned chickpeas (or tofu for protein)
✅ ¼ cup raisins (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
✅ ¼ cup cashews or almonds, toasted

For the Spice Blend:

✅ 1 tsp cumin seeds
✅ 1 tsp coriander powder
✅ 1 tsp garam masala
✅ ½ tsp turmeric
✅ ½ tsp smoked paprika (or chili powder for heat)
✅ ½ tsp ground cinnamon
✅ Salt & pepper, to taste

For Garnishing:

✅ Fresh cilantro & mint, chopped
✅ Fried onions (optional)
✅ Lemon wedges
✅ Saffron water (soak a pinch of saffron in 2 tbsp warm water)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

1️⃣ In a pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add rinsed basmati rice, bay leaf, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, and salt.
2️⃣ Cover and cook on low heat for 12 minutes, until the rice is fluffy and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1️⃣ Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large pan. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
2️⃣ Add sliced onions and cook until golden brown and caramelized.
3️⃣ Stir in the garlic and ginger, followed by chopped tomatoes. Cook until soft.

Step 3: Add Vegetables & Spices

1️⃣ Toss in the vegetables, chickpeas, and all the spices (coriander, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, cinnamon, salt & pepper). Stir well.
2️⃣ Pour in the coconut milk (if using) and simmer for 5–7 minutes, until the veggies are tender.

Step 4: Layer the Biryani

1️⃣ In a deep pot, add half of the cooked rice.
2️⃣ Spoon the spiced vegetable mixture over the rice.
3️⃣ Add the remaining rice on top, drizzle with saffron water, and sprinkle with toasted nuts and raisins.

Step 5: Steam & Serve

1️⃣ Cover with a lid and let it steam on low heat for 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
2️⃣ Garnish with fresh cilantro, mint, and fried onions. Serve hot with vegan raita or yogurt.

Tips for the Perfect Vegan Biryani

🍛 Extra Flavor? – Sauté some tofu or soy curls for added protein.
🔥 Spicy Kick? – Add green chilies or extra garam masala.
🌿 Authentic Touch? – Use ghee-flavored vegan butter for a rich taste.
❄️ Make Ahead? – Biryani tastes even better the next day! Store in the fridge and reheat with a splash of water.

This Vegan Biryani is fragrant, comforting, and full of bold, authentic flavors—a dish that’s guaranteed to impress!