Easy Veggie Biryani Recipe
Introduction
Easy veggie biryani is a flavorful and comforting one-pot dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining fragrant basmati rice with mixed vegetables, aromatic spices, and crunchy cashews, it delivers authentic taste with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 250g basmati rice
- 400g special mixed frozen vegetables
- A generous handful of raisins
- 1 vegetable stock cube
- 2 tbsp korma curry paste
- A generous handful of roasted salted cashew nuts
- 600ml (1 pint) boiling water
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil the kettle to prepare 600ml of boiling water. Place the rice, mixed vegetables, and raisins in a large microwaveable bowl.
- Step 2: Pour the boiling water over the rice mixture, crumble in the vegetable stock cube, then stir in the korma curry paste until well combined.
- Step 3: Cover the bowl with cling film, leaving a small gap to let out steam. Microwave on full power (850 watts) for 12 minutes. If your microwave has less power, cook for 14 minutes instead.
- Step 4: Remove the bowl from the microwave and let it stand, still covered, for 5 minutes to finish cooking and absorb the flavors fully.
- Step 5: Fluff up the rice gently with a fork, scatter roasted salted cashew nuts on top, and serve hot.
Tips & Variations
- Swap frozen vegetables with fresh diced carrots, peas, and bell peppers for a brighter texture.
- Add a pinch of saffron soaked in warm water to enhance the color and aroma.
- For extra protein, stir in cooked chickpeas or tofu cubes before microwaving.
- If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the korma curry paste to 1 tablespoon or use a mild curry powder instead.
Storage
Store leftover biryani in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave, covered, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular curry paste instead of korma?
Yes, you can substitute korma curry paste with any curry paste you prefer, but it may change the flavor profile slightly. Adjust the amount to suit your taste and spice tolerance.
Is it possible to make this biryani on the stovetop?
Absolutely. Combine all ingredients in a covered pan with the boiling water, bring to a boil, then simmer gently until the rice is cooked and liquid absorbed. This usually takes around 15-20 minutes.
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Easy Veggie Biryani Recipe
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and flavorful Easy Veggie Biryani recipe that combines basmati rice, mixed vegetables, raisins, and aromatic spices cooked effortlessly in the microwave, topped with crunchy roasted cashew nuts for a delightful texture contrast.
Ingredients
Rice and Vegetables
- 250g basmati rice
- 400g special mixed frozen vegetables
- a generous handful of raisins
Seasoning and Garnish
- 1 vegetable stock cube
- 2 tbsp korma curry paste
- a generous handful of roasted salted cashew nuts
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Boil the kettle to have 600ml of boiling water ready. Get a large microwaveable bowl and add the basmati rice, mixed frozen vegetables, and raisins into it.
- Add Seasonings: Pour the 600ml of boiling water over the rice mixture. Crumble in the vegetable stock cube and stir in the 2 tablespoons of korma curry paste thoroughly to combine all flavors well.
- Microwave Cooking: Cover the bowl with cling film, leaving a small gap to release steam. Cook the mixture on full power (850 watts) in the microwave for 12 minutes. If your microwave has less power, extend cooking time by 2 minutes.
- Standing Time: Once the cooking is complete, remove the bowl from the microwave but keep it covered. Let it stand for 5 minutes to allow the rice to finish cooking and to avoid a nutty texture.
- Final Touch and Serve: After standing, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Scatter the roasted salted cashew nuts on top for added crunch and serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust cooking time based on your microwave’s power settings to ensure rice is fully cooked.
- Leaving the dish to stand after microwaving is essential for perfect texture.
- You can substitute korma curry paste with any mild curry paste or spice blend of your choice.
- For added flavor, consider garnishing with fresh coriander or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- This recipe is suitable for a quick meal and can be easily adapted to include your preferred vegetables.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: Indian
Keywords: easy veggie biryani, microwave biryani, vegetarian biryani, quick biryani recipe, basmati rice recipe, vegetable curry rice
