Best Easy Degi Biryani Recipe

Aromatic and colorful, Degi Biryani layers basmati rice with spiced vegetables and whole spices for a complete vegetarian feast. This family-friendly dish is perfect for celebrations and everyday meals alike.

Cook 90 min Difficulty NORMAL 365 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean
Image coming soon
Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • basmati rice 2 cups
  • mixed vegetables (carrot, green beans, peas, potato, cauliflower) 3 cups
  • onion 2 pieces
  • tomato 2 pieces
  • plain yogurt 2 tbsp
  • cashew nuts 1 oz
  • raisins 1 oz
Seasonings/Sauce
  • vegetable oil 3 tbsp
  • ghee 2 tbsp
  • whole cumin seeds 1 tsp
  • bay leaves 2 pieces
  • green cardamom pods 4 pieces
  • cloves 4 pieces
  • cinnamon stick 1 piece
  • turmeric powder 1 tsp
  • red chili powder 1 tsp
  • biryani masala 2 tsp
  • salt 2 tsp
  • saffron strands (soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk) 1 pinch
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 62 g 68%
Protein 8 g 9%
Fat 8 g 20%
Serving size 310g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse the basmati rice several times, then soak for at least 30 minutes; drain well before cooking.

  2. 2

    Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil and 2 tbsp ghee in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, bay leaves, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

  3. 3

    Add sliced onions and cook on medium-high heat, stirring regularly, until golden brown and caramelized, about 10 minutes.

  4. 4

    Mix in chopped tomatoes and cook until soft. Add mixed vegetables, turmeric, red chili powder, biryani masala, and salt. Stir to coat the veggies in the spices and cook for 6-8 minutes until slightly tender.

  5. 5

    Stir in yogurt, cashews, and raisins. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust salt as needed.

  6. 6

    In a separate large pan, boil plenty of water with 1 tsp salt. Add the soaked rice, and cook until just 75% cooked (the grains should be firm). Drain immediately.

  7. 7

    Layer half of the vegetable mixture across the pot's bottom, followed by half the drained rice. Repeat layers. Drizzle saffron milk and remaining ghee over the top layer.

  8. 8

    Cover tightly with foil or a lid and steam ('dum') the biryani over very low heat for 20-25 minutes. Turn off heat and rest 10 minutes before serving.

  9. 9

    Fluff gently with a fork. Serve hot and garnish with extra nuts or fresh herbs if desired.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Degi Biryani recipe?
Basmati rice is the key ingredient that defines Degi Biryani, giving it its signature fluffy texture and aromatic character. Pairing basmati rice with layered spiced vegetables and whole spices creates the dish's distinctive flavor and identity.
Q. What spices are essential for the authentic flavor in this recipe?
Whole cumin, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and biryani masala are essential in creating the signature aroma and complexity of Degi Biryani. These whole spices, sautéed first in oil and ghee, deeply infuse the rice and vegetables.
Q. How do you ensure the rice doesn't overcook or get mushy in biryani?
Cook the soaked rice only until it is about 75% done—each grain should be firm but not raw. Draining and then layering with vegetables before final steaming keeps the grains separate and prevents them from turning mushy.
Q. What is the calorie and carbohydrate content per serving?
Each serving of this Degi Biryani contains roughly 365 kcal, with 62 grams of carbohydrates—about 68% of the total calories. It's a hearty, energy-rich dish best enjoyed as a main meal.
AI 채팅 아이콘