Healthy Indian Vegetable Biryani

• 2 cups basmati rice

• 3 1/2 cups water

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

• 2 onions, thinly sliced

• 2 carrots, diced

• 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 1 cup cauliflower florets

• 1 cup green peas

• 1 tsp ginger paste

• 1 tsp garlic paste

• 1/2 tsp turmeric

• 1 tsp cumin powder

• 2 tsp coriander powder

• 1 tsp garam masala

• 1/2 tsp chili powder

• 1/2 cup plain yogurt

• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

• 1/4 cup mint leaves

• Salt to taste

1. Rinse the basmati rice until the water runs clear, then soak in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.


2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.


3. Add the ginger and garlic paste, and sauté for another minute.


4. Stir in the diced carrots, green beans, cauliflower florets, and green peas. Cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly tender.


5. Add the turmeric, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and chili powder. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.


6. Pour in the plain yogurt and mix until well combined.


7. Add the soaked and drained basmati rice to the pot, gently stirring to mix with the vegetables and spices.


8. Pour the water into the pot and season with salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water has been absorbed.


9. Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes.


10. Gently fluff the Healthy Indian Vegetable Biryani with a fork, then garnish with chopped cilantro and mint leaves before serving.