Vegetarian Dum Biryani: A Flavorful Symphony of Vegetables and Aromatic Rice

Introduction: 

Vegetarian Dum Biryani is a delightful blend of fragrant basmati rice and an assortment of colorful vegetables, cooked to perfection in a slow, dum-style method. This classic Indian dish is a celebration of flavors, combining aromatic spices, tender vegetables, and long-grain rice. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to create a tantalizing Vegetarian Dum Biryani that's sure to become a favorite at your dining table.

SOURCE

Ingredients:

For Marination:

Mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, peas, potatoes) - 2 cups, diced

Yogurt - 1/2 cup

Ginger-garlic paste - 1 tablespoon

Red chili powder - 1 teaspoon

Turmeric powder - 1/2 teaspoon

Biryani masala - 1 tablespoon

Mint leaves - a handful, chopped

Coriander leaves - a handful, chopped

Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon

Salt - 1 teaspoon

For Biryani Rice:

Basmati rice - 2 cups, soaked for 30 minutes

Water - 4 cups

Bay leaves - 2

Cinnamon stick - 1-inch

Cardamom pods - 3

Cloves - 3

Salt - 1 teaspoon

For Biryani Layering:

Ghee - 2 tablespoons

Onion - 2, thinly sliced

Tomatoes - 2, sliced

Green chilies - 2, slit

Saffron strands - a pinch (soaked in warm milk)

Fried onions - for garnish

Fresh coriander leaves - for garnish

Steps:

Marinating Vegetables:

In a bowl, combine diced mixed vegetables with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, biryani masala, chopped mint leaves, chopped coriander leaves, lemon juice, and salt.

Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cooking Biryani Rice:

Rinse basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

In a pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.

Add soaked and drained rice, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and salt.

Cook until the rice is 70-80% done. Drain excess water and set aside.

Layering Biryani:

In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat ghee over medium heat.

Add thinly sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. Remove half for garnishing.

Add marinated vegetables to the pan and cook until they are slightly tender.

Layer the partially cooked rice over the vegetables.

Top with sliced tomatoes, green chilies, saffron-infused milk, and the remaining fried onions.

Cover the pan tightly with a lid and let it cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes.

Final Touch:

Gently fluff the biryani with a fork to mix the layers.

Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and fried onions.

Serve the Vegetarian Dum Biryani hot, accompanied by raita or a side salad.

Conclusion: 

Vegetarian Dum Biryani is a culinary masterpiece that showcases the rich tapestry of flavors that vegetables and aromatic spices can create. The slow dum-style cooking method ensures that each grain of rice is infused with the essence of the vegetables and spices, resulting in a dish that is both visually appealing and incredibly satisfying. Enjoy the symphony of flavors in every mouthful as you savor this delightful Vegetarian Dum Biryani at your dining table.