Oil-Free Vegetable Biryani as known as healthy Veg Food

Veg. Biryani

This Oil-free vegetable biryani is acceptable as a healthy traditional favourite, keeping all its rich aromas while eliminating unnecessary fats. This slow-cooking method relies on natural moisture from fresh vegetables and a mixture of traditional spices, delivering a flavourful, nutritious and healthy meal. With no extra oil, every ingredient shines in its purest form, offering a light yet satisfying experience. It is best for those looking a healthier alternative without compromising on taste!

Why You'll Love This Oil-Free Vegetable Biryani？

✅ Guilt-Free Indulgence – Enjoy classic biryani flavours without excess fats.

✅ Naturally Flavourful – Slow cooking helps ingredients release their own moisture and flavours.

✅ Packed with Nutrition – Loaded with fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and wholesome grains.

Servings & Cooking Time

Green vegetables

🕒 Preparation Time: 20 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 40 minutes
🍽 Servings: 

Ingredients of Recipes:

Rice Base

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 4 cups water
• 2 cardamom pods

  

  Fresh Vegetables

• 4-5 cloves
• 1 small cinnamon stick
• 1 bay leaf
• A pinch of salt
• Vegetable & Spice Blend
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, peas, cauliflower), diced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 medium tomato, finely chopped
• 1 green chilli, slit
• 1-inch ginger, grated
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp plain yogurt
• ½ tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
  
• 1 tsp red chilli powder
• ½ tsp garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Garnish & Final Touches
• 3 tbsp coriander leaves, chopped
• 2 tbsp mint leaves, chopped
• 1 cup water or vegetable stock (for cooking vegetables)
• Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

1. Prepare the Rice

Rinse the Rice: Start by rinsing the basmati rice under cold running water. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky. Rinse until the water runs clear.

Soak the Rice: Soak the rinsed rice in water for about 20 minutes. This step helps the grains cook evenly and become fluffy.

Cook the Rice: In a large pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add the soaked rice along with cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, bay leaf, and salt. Stir gently to combine.

Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes or until the rice is cooked and all the water is absorbed.

Fluff the Rice: Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Set aside.

2. Cook the Vegetables

Dry Roast Cumin Seeds: In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, dry roast the cumin seeds over medium heat until they become fragrant (about 1-2 minutes). Be careful not to burn them.

Sauté Aromatics: Add the sliced onion to the pan and sauté until it turns golden brown. This may take about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

Add Ginger, Garlic, and Green Chilli: Once the onions are golden, add the grated ginger, minced garlic, and slit green chillies. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the raw smell of garlic disappears.

3. Build the Spice Profile

Incorporate Tomatoes and Spices: Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan along with turmeric powder, red chilli powder, garam masala, and salt. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Cook Until Softened: Cook the mixture until the tomatoes break down and become soft, about 5-7 minutes. This forms the base of your biryani.

4. Add Yogurt & Vegetables

Stir in Yogurt: Lower the heat and add the plain yogurt to the pan. Mix well to create a creamy texture. This adds richness without using oil.

Add Vegetables: Toss in the diced mixed vegetables, ensuring they are well coated with the spice mixture.

Simmer: Pour in water or vegetable stock to help cook the vegetables. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but not mushy.

5. Layer & Finish the Biryani

Layer the Rice: Once the vegetables are cooked, spread the cooked rice evenly over the vegetable mixture in the pan.

Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh coriander and mint leaves over the rice for added flavour and freshness.

Final Cooking: Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and cook on low heat for an additional 10 minutes. This allows the taste to meld together beautifully.

6. Serve & Enjoy!

Mix Gently: Before serving, gently mix the biryani to combine the layers without breaking the rice grains.

Pairing Suggestions: Serve the biryani hot, accompanied by a side of yogurt or raita (a yogurt-based side dish) for an authentic experience. You can also serve it with a salad or pickles for added flavour.

Pro Tips for the Best Oil-Free Biryani

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand. Cauliflower, potatoes, and zucchini work well too.
Spice Adjustments: Adjust the spices according to your taste preference. If you prefer a milder biryani, reduce the amount of green chillies and red chilli powder.
Cooking Method: If you have a pressure cooker or an Instant Pot, you can adapt this recipe for those appliances for quicker cooking.

This oil-free vegetable biryani is perfect for meal prep, family dinners, and special occasions. Try it today and enjoy a healthier take on an all-time favourite!

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