Shahi Vegetable Biryani
Shahi Vegetable Biryani is a luxurious vegetarian version of the classic layered rice dish. It's packed with fragrant vegetables, tender rice, and a rich, flavorful sauce. Perfect for special occasions or a comforting weeknight meal.
Biryani, a beloved dish in Indian cuisine, has a rich history dating back to the Mughal era. Legend has it that the first biryani was created in the kitchens of the royal palace in Delhi. The story goes that Emperor Shah Jahan, known for his love of food, commissioned his chefs to create a dish that would combine the flavors of Persia and India. The result was biryani, a layered rice dish with fragrant spices, tender meat, and a myriad of vegetables. Shahi Vegetable Biryani is a vegetarian interpretation of this classic dish, featuring a medley of colorful vegetables and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. It's a symphony of flavors and textures that will delight vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Shahi Vegetable Biryani Shahi Vegetable Biryani Shahi Vegetable Biryani Shahi Vegetable Biryani
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 carrot, chopped
  • 1 potato, cubed
Instructions
  1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear.
  2. In a large pot over medium heat, bring the water to a boil.
  3. Add the rice and salt to taste. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
  4. Remove the rice from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
  5. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the oil.
  6. Add the onion and cook until softened. Add the green bell pepper, red bell pepper, carrot, and potato. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
  7. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine.
  8. Cover and cook for 5 minutes more.
Why It Works
  • The use of basmati rice gives the biryani a light and fluffy texture.
  • Cooking the rice in water with salt enhances its flavor.
  • Sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the rice ensures they are tender and retain their color.
  • The addition of a flavorful sauce made from tomatoes, onions, and spices gives the biryani a rich and complex flavor.