Delicious and Easy Indian-Style Vegetable Biryani with Basmati Rice and Raita Recipe

If you're looking for a flavorful and healthy vegetarian dish, try this Indian-style vegetable biryani with basmati rice and raita. This dish is made with aromatic spices, mixed vegetables, and fluffy basmati rice. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, potatoes, cauliflower)
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the basmati rice until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes.
2. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and fry until they start to sputter.
3. Add the chopped onions, garlic, and ginger. Fry until the onions are translucent.
4. Add the coriander powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, and chili powder. Fry for a minute until the spices are fragrant.
5. Add the mixed vegetables and fry for 5 minutes.
6. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot. Fry for 2-3 minutes.
7. Add 2 cups of water and salt to taste. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
8. In a small bowl, mix the yogurt and chopped cilantro to make raita.
9. Serve the biryani hot with raita on the side.

Tips:

• You can use any vegetables you like in this recipe. Try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or green beans.
• For a non-vegetarian version, you can add cooked chicken or shrimp to the biryani.
• Toast some cashews or almonds and sprinkle them on top of the biryani for added crunch.