Fragrant Vegetable Biryani with Saffron Raita

Aromatic vegetable biryani infused with saffron and served with a creamy saffron raita.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Basmati Rice
• 2 cups, small diced Mixed Vegetables (carrots, peas, green beans, cauliflower, potatoes)
• 1 large, thinly sliced and caramelized Onion
• 1 medium, chopped Tomato
• 1 tbsp Ginger-Garlic Paste
• 2 tbsp Biryani Masala
• 1/2 tsp Turmeric Powder
• 2 tbsp Ghee (Clarified Butter) or Vegetable Oil
• 2 tbsp, chopped Mint Leaves
• 2 tbsp, chopped Cilantro
• 1/4 tsp Saffron Strands
• 2 tbsp Warm Milk
• 1 cup Plain Yogurt
• 1/2 medium, grated and squeezed to remove excess water Cucumber
• to taste Salt

Instructions

1. Wash and soak basmati rice for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Soak saffron strands in warm milk and set aside to infuse.
3. Caramelize the sliced onions: Heat 1 tbsp of ghee or oil in a pan. Add the onions and sauté on medium-low heat until they turn deep golden brown and caramelized. This may take about 20-25 minutes. Set aside.
4. Heat remaining ghee or oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or pressure cooker. Add chopped tomato and sauté until soft.
5. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute.
6. Add biryani masala, turmeric powder, and salt. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
7. Add mixed vegetables and cook for 5-7 minutes.
8. Add the soaked and drained basmati rice. Mix gently.
9. Add 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until rice is cooked through.
10. Alternatively, pressure cook for 2 whistles.
11. Layering: Gently fluff the rice with a fork. Sprinkle saffron milk, caramelized onions, chopped mint leaves, and chopped cilantro over the rice. Cover and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
12. For the saffron raita: In a bowl, combine plain yogurt, grated and squeezed cucumber, a pinch of salt, and a few strands of saffron. Mix well.
13. Serve fragrant vegetable biryani hot with saffron raita.

Cuisine: Indian

Suitability: vegetarian

Prep Time: 25 mins

Cook Time: 40 mins

Serving Size: 2

Meal Type: dinner