15 Yummy Veg Biryani Recipe Ideas

Veg Biryani Recipe Ideas bring a delightful mix of spices, flavors, and textures, making them a favorite among food lovers. This aromatic dish, traditionally associated with royal feasts, has evolved over centuries, with vegetarian adaptations that are just as flavorful as their meaty counterparts.

Originating from Persian and Mughlai influences, biryani has traveled across regions, adopting unique flavors and techniques along the way. From the rich, layered Hyderabadi dum biryani to the subtly spiced Lucknowi version, each style brings something special to the table.

Veg Biryani Recipe Ideas

1. Classic Hyderabadi Veg Biryani

Description

Hyderabadi Veg Biryani is a rich and aromatic rice dish that follows the traditional dum cooking method. This biryani is layered with fragrant basmati rice, marinated vegetables, and a blend of whole spices, saffron, and caramelized onions. Slow-cooked to perfection, it captures the essence of Hyderabadi cuisine with its deep flavors and royal appeal.

Ingredients (Serves 4-5)

For the Rice:

• 2 cups basmati rice (soaked for 30 minutes)
• 4 cups water
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 cloves
• 2 green cardamoms
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1 tsp salt

For the Vegetable Layer:

• 2 tbsp ghee or oil
• 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 green chili (slit)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrot, beans, peas, potatoes)
• ½ cup yogurt
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp coriander powder
• ¼ tsp saffron strands (soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk)
• 2 tbsp chopped mint leaves
• 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
• ¼ cup fried onions (for garnish)

For the Dum Cooking:

• 1 tbsp ghee
• 1 tbsp milk
• ½ tsp kewra or rose water (optional)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate Values)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg

2. Kolkata Veg Biryani

Description

Kolkata Veg Biryani is a mildly spiced, fragrant biryani known for its subtle sweetness and the unique addition of potatoes. Unlike other biryanis, it is less spicy and often includes saffron or meetha attar (a floral essence) for a delicate aroma. The use of slow-cooked, flavorful rice layered with soft potatoes and aromatic spices makes this dish a true delight for biryani lovers.

Ingredients (Serves 4-5)

For the Rice:

• 2 cups basmati rice (soaked for 30 minutes)
• 4 cups water
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 cloves
• 2 green cardamoms
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1 tsp salt

For the Vegetable Layer:

• 2 tbsp ghee or oil
• 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 green chili (slit)
• 2 medium potatoes (boiled and lightly fried)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, peas)
• ½ cup yogurt
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp coriander powder
• ¼ tsp saffron strands (soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk)
• 2 tbsp chopped mint leaves
• 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
• ¼ cup fried onions (for garnish)

For the Dum Cooking:

• 1 tbsp ghee
• 1 tbsp milk
• ½ tsp kewra water or rose water (optional)
• ¼ tsp meetha attar (optional)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate Values)

• Calories: 350-420 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 400mg

3. Lucknowi Nawabi Biryani

Description

Lucknowi Nawabi Biryani, also known as Awadhi Biryani, is a royal and aromatic dish from the kitchens of the Nawabs of Lucknow. Unlike the spicier Hyderabadi version, this biryani is known for its delicate flavors, slow-cooked method, and rich yet mild taste. The key to its regal taste lies in the use of fragrant spices, saffron-infused milk, and a touch of kewra or rose water, giving it a luxurious aroma.

Ingredients (Serves 4-5)

For the Rice:

• 2 cups basmati rice (soaked for 30 minutes)
• 4 cups water
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 cloves
• 2 green cardamoms
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1 tsp salt

For the Vegetable Layer:

• 2 tbsp ghee or oil
• 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 green chili (slit)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrot, beans, peas, potatoes)
• ½ cup yogurt
• ½ cup milk
• 10-12 cashews (lightly roasted)
• 8-10 raisins
• 1 tsp white pepper powder
• ½ tsp nutmeg powder
• ½ tsp mace powder
• ¼ tsp saffron strands (soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk)
• 2 tbsp chopped mint leaves
• 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
• ¼ cup fried onions (for garnish)

For the Dum Cooking:

• 1 tbsp ghee
• 1 tbsp milk
• ½ tsp kewra water or rose water
• ¼ tsp meetha attar (optional)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate Values)

• Calories: 370-430 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 420mg

4. South Indian Coconut Milk Biryani

Description

South Indian Coconut Milk Biryani is a flavorful and aromatic dish that stands out due to its rich coconut-infused taste. Unlike traditional biryanis that rely on yogurt or saffron, this version uses coconut milk to enhance the richness and provide a subtle sweetness. Infused with curry leaves, mustard seeds, and South Indian spices, this biryani is a comforting and unique twist on the classic dish.

Ingredients (Serves 4-5)

For the Rice:

• 2 cups seeraga samba rice or basmati rice (soaked for 30 minutes)
• 4 cups coconut milk
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 cloves
• 2 green cardamoms
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1 tsp salt

For the Vegetable Layer:

• 2 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 green chili (slit)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, peas, potatoes)
• ½ cup coconut milk
• ½ cup water
• 1 tsp fennel seeds (powdered)
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp coriander powder
• ¼ cup grated coconut (optional)
• 2 tbsp chopped mint leaves
• 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
• ¼ cup fried onions (for garnish)
• 8-10 cashews (lightly roasted)

For the Dum Cooking:

• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• ½ tsp ghee (optional, for aroma)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate Values)

• Calories: 380-450 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg

5. Paneer Tikka Biryani

Description

Paneer Tikka Biryani is a flavorful fusion of smoky, marinated paneer tikka and aromatic biryani. The paneer cubes are first marinated in spiced yogurt and grilled or pan-fried before being layered with fragrant basmati rice. The dish combines the rich taste of tikka masala with the comforting warmth of biryani, making it a perfect choice for paneer lovers.

Ingredients (Serves 4-5)

For the Rice:

• 2 cups basmati rice (soaked for 30 minutes)
• 4 cups water
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 cloves
• 2 green cardamoms
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1 tsp salt

For the Paneer Tikka Marinade:

• 200g paneer (cubed)
• ½ cup thick yogurt
• 1 tbsp gram flour (besan)
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• ½ tsp cumin powder
• ½ tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp mustard oil or regular oil
• Salt to taste

For the Biryani Masala:

• 2 tbsp ghee or oil
• 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 green chili (slit)
• ½ cup mixed vegetables (optional)
• ½ cup yogurt
• ¼ tsp saffron strands (soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk)
• 2 tbsp chopped mint leaves
• 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
• ¼ cup fried onions (for garnish)

For the Dum Cooking:

• 1 tbsp ghee
• 1 tbsp milk
• ½ tsp kewra water or rose water

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate Values)

• Calories: 400-460 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 420mg

6. Mushroom Biryani

Description

Mushroom Biryani is a flavorful, aromatic, and nutritious dish that combines the umami richness of mushrooms with fragrant basmati rice and warm spices. This one-pot dish is easy to prepare and makes for a perfect vegetarian alternative to traditional biryanis. The earthy taste of mushrooms pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of biryani masala, making it a favorite for mushroom lovers.

Ingredients (Serves 4-5)

For the Rice:

• 2 cups basmati rice (soaked for 30 minutes)
• 4 cups water
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 cloves
• 2 green cardamoms
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1 tsp salt

For the Mushroom Masala:

• 2 tbsp ghee or oil
• 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 green chili (slit)
• 200g mushrooms (sliced)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)
• ½ cup yogurt
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp coriander powder
• ½ tsp cumin powder
• ¼ tsp saffron strands (soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk)
• 2 tbsp chopped mint leaves
• 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
• ¼ cup fried onions (for garnish)

For the Dum Cooking:

• 1 tbsp ghee
• 1 tbsp milk
• ½ tsp kewra water or rose water

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate Values)

• Calories: 350-420 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 400mg

7. Jackfruit Biryani (Kathal Biryani)

Description

Jackfruit Biryani, also known as Kathal Biryani, is a delicious and hearty vegetarian alternative that closely resembles the texture of meat. Tender pieces of raw jackfruit are marinated and cooked with aromatic spices, layered with fragrant basmati rice, and slow-cooked to perfection. This biryani is a perfect choice for those who want a rich and flavorful dish with a unique twist.

Ingredients (Serves 4-5)

For the Rice:

• 2 cups basmati rice (soaked for 30 minutes)
• 4 cups water
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 cloves
• 2 green cardamoms
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1 tsp salt

For the Jackfruit Masala:

• 2 tbsp ghee or oil
• 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 green chili (slit)
• 2 cups raw jackfruit (peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces)
• ½ cup yogurt
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp coriander powder
• ½ tsp cumin powder
• ¼ tsp saffron strands (soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk)
• 2 tbsp chopped mint leaves
• 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
• ¼ cup fried onions (for garnish)

For the Dum Cooking:

• 1 tbsp ghee
• 1 tbsp milk
• ½ tsp kewra water or rose water

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate Values)

• Calories: 380-450 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 420mg

8. Soya Chunk Biryani

Description

Soya Chunk Biryani is a protein-packed vegetarian alternative that offers a meaty texture and rich flavors. Soya chunks absorb the aromatic spices and blend perfectly with fragrant basmati rice, making this dish a wholesome and satisfying meal. This biryani is a great option for vegetarians looking for a protein-rich dish with bold flavors.

Ingredients (Serves 4-5)

For the Rice:

• 2 cups basmati rice (soaked for 30 minutes)
• 4 cups water
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 cloves
• 2 green cardamoms
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1 tsp salt

For the Soya Chunk Masala:

• 1 cup soya chunks (boiled and squeezed)
• 2 tbsp ghee or oil
• 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 green chili (slit)
• ½ cup yogurt
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp coriander powder
• ½ tsp cumin powder
• ¼ tsp saffron strands (soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk)
• 2 tbsp chopped mint leaves
• 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
• ¼ cup fried onions (for garnish)

For the Dum Cooking:

• 1 tbsp ghee
• 1 tbsp milk
• ½ tsp kewra water or rose water

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate Values)

• Calories: 360-420 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sodium: 400mg

9. Mixed Vegetable Biryani

Description

Mixed Vegetable Biryani is a colorful and nutritious dish made with an assortment of fresh vegetables and fragrant basmati rice, all cooked together with aromatic spices. The vegetables, including carrots, beans, peas, and potatoes, soak up the rich flavors of biryani masala, making this dish a wholesome, comforting, and satisfying vegetarian meal. It’s a great choice for a hearty family dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients (Serves 4-5)

For the Rice:

• 2 cups basmati rice (soaked for 30 minutes)
• 4 cups water
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 cloves
• 2 green cardamoms
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1 tsp salt

For the Vegetable Masala:

• 2 tbsp ghee or oil
• 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 green chili (slit)
• 1 large tomato (chopped)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, potatoes, beans)
• ½ cup yogurt
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp coriander powder
• ½ tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 2 tbsp chopped mint leaves
• 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
• ¼ cup fried onions (for garnish)

For the Dum Cooking:

• 1 tbsp ghee
• 1 tbsp milk
• ½ tsp kewra water or rose water

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate Values)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg

10. Quinoa Veg Biryani

Description

Quinoa Veg Biryani is a healthy and gluten-free twist on the traditional biryani. Quinoa, a high-protein and fiber-rich grain, is used in place of basmati rice to create a light yet filling dish. The quinoa absorbs the aromatic spices and flavors of the vegetables, making it a nutritious and delicious option for those seeking a low-carb or gluten-free alternative to the classic biryani.

Ingredients (Serves 4-5)

For the Quinoa:

• 1 ½ cups quinoa (rinsed)
• 3 cups water
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 cloves
• 2 green cardamoms
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1 tsp salt

For the Veggie Masala:

• 2 tbsp ghee or oil
• 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 green chili (slit)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, potatoes)
• 1 large tomato (chopped)
• ½ cup yogurt
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp coriander powder
• ½ tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 2 tbsp chopped mint leaves
• 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
• ¼ cup fried onions (for garnish)

For the Dum Cooking:

• 1 tbsp ghee
• 1 tbsp milk
• ½ tsp kewra water or rose water

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate Values)

• Calories: 320-370 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Protein: 9g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 7g
• Sodium: 350mg

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of basmati rice for biryani?

Yes, you can use brown rice instead of basmati rice for a healthier alternative. However, keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and may result in a slightly different texture.

How can I make my veg biryani spicier?

To make your veg biryani spicier, you can add extra green chilies, a pinch of red chili powder, or even some spicy biryani masala. Adjust the spice level according to your preference.

Can I make biryani ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare veg biryani ahead of time. In fact, the flavors often develop better after a few hours or overnight. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Is there a way to make veg biryani vegan?

Yes, veg biryani can be made vegan by using oil instead of ghee and omitting any dairy-based ingredients like yogurt or milk. You can also use plant-based alternatives like coconut yogurt for a creamy texture.