Vegetable Biryani (One-Pot)

Ingredients

• 1 cup Basmati rice (rinsed)
• 2 cups Mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, beans, cauliflower)
• 1 medium Onion (finely sliced)
• 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp Ginger (grated)
• 1 tsp Whole spices (bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom)
• 1 tsp Cumin seeds
• 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
• 1 tsp Biryani masala or garam masala
• 1/2 tsp Ground cumin (optional)(optional)
• 3/4 tsp Salt
• 2 tbsp Vegetable oil or ghee
• 1.75 cups Water
• 1 tbsp Lemon juice(optional)
• 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro (chopped)(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prep (15 minutes): Rinse the basmati rice until the water runs mostly clear. Slice the onion, mince the garlic, grate the ginger, and chop/measure the mixed vegetables.

2. 2

   Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and whole spices; stir for 30–45 seconds until fragrant. Add onion and cook 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and ginger for 30 seconds.

3. 3

   Add turmeric, biryani masala/garam masala, and salt. Add mixed vegetables and cook 5 minutes, stirring to coat with spices.

4. 4

   Add rinsed rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low, cover, and cook 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.

5. 5

   Rest (5 minutes): Turn off heat and let the pot sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff gently with a fork, then stir in lemon juice and cilantro if using. Serve hot.