Welcome to the ultimate guide for making delicious Veg Dum Biryani at home! Biryani is one of the most loved and flavorful dishes in Indian cuisine. This fragrant rice dish, prepared with a perfect blend of spices, fresh vegetables, and aromatic basmati rice, is cooked slowly to bring out its rich and unique taste. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving something comforting, Veg Dum Biryani is your go-to dish. Let’s dive into the detailed recipe and ensure you master the art of making perfect Veg Dum Biryani every time.

Ingredients

For the Biryani Rice:

• 1 cup Basmati rice
• 2 ½ cups water
• 1 bay leaf
• 2-3 cloves
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• Salt to taste

For the Vegetable Layer:

• 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, green beans, bell peppers)
• 1 medium-sized onion, thinly sliced
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1 ½ tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 medium-sized tomato, pureed
• 1 tsp biryani masala powder
• ½ tsp red chili powder
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp oil or ghee

For the Dum Layer:

• 1 small bunch of coriander leaves, chopped
• 1 small bunch of mint leaves, chopped
• 1 tbsp fried onions
• 2 tbsp fried cashews and raisins
• 1 tbsp ghee
• 1 teaspoon saffron threads soaked in 2 tablespoons heated milk.
• 1 tsp rose water (optional)

Directions to Make Veg Dum Biryani

Step 1: Cooking the Rice

1. Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly in cold water until it is clear.
2. In a large pot, combine 2 ½ cups of water with bay leaf, cloves, cinnamon stick, and cumin seeds. Bring this to a boil.
3. Add the washed rice and cook it on medium heat until it’s 70-80% cooked. Drain the excess water and set aside.

Step 2: Preparing the Vegetables

1. In a large pan, melt the oil or ghee over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and green chilies. Sauté until golden brown.
3. Sauté the ginger-garlic paste until the raw aroma fades.
4. Cook, stirring in the tomato puree, until the sauce is rich and thick.
5. Stir in the turmeric, red chili powder, biryani masala powder, and salt. Mix well.
6. Toss in the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender but not mushy.

Step 3: Layering the Biryani

1. In a heavy-bottomed pot, spread half of the partially cooked rice.
2. Pour the vegetable mixture on top, ensuring even distribution.
3. Spread the remaining rice on top.
4. Drizzle the saffron-infused milk and a hint of rose water over the rice.
5. Garnish with chopped mint leaves, coriander leaves, fried onions, and a few fried cashews and raisins.

Step 4: The Dum Process

1. Cover the pot tightly with a lid, sealing it with a dough (optional) to ensure no steam escapes.
2. Place the saucepan on a low heat or a tawa and cook for 20–25 minutes.
3. Once done, turn off the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before opening.

Step 5: Serving

Serve your fragrant Veg Dum Biryani hot, garnished with more fresh coriander and mint leaves. It pairs perfectly with raita, papad, or simple cucumber-onion salad.

What to Serve with Veg Dum Biryani?

• Raita: A cooling cucumber and yogurt side that complements the spiciness of the biryani.
• Salad: Serve with a refreshing cucumber, onion, and tomato salad drizzled with lemon juice for a perfect balance of flavors.
• Papad: Enjoy crispy papad for an added crunch to the dish.
• Mint Chutney: A flavorful mint and yogurt chutney balances the spices beautifully.

Khushaliben Ramani’s Tips for Perfect Veg Dum Biryani:

1. Use Quality Basmati Rice: Always opt for aged Basmati rice for that distinct aroma and perfect grain separation.
2. Marinate Vegetables: Marinating vegetables in a blend of spices before cooking brings out the rich flavors.
3. Slow Cooking: The key to a flavorful Dum Biryani is the slow cooking process, which allows the rice and vegetables to absorb the spices fully.
4. Seal the Pot: Ensure the pot is tightly sealed during the dum process to lock in all the flavors.

Conclusion

Veg Dum Biryani is more than just a meal—it’s an experience! With its fragrant spices, perfectly cooked rice, and colorful vegetables, it’s bound to be a hit at your table. Follow this detailed step-by-step guide, and you’ll be able to create a restaurant-style Veg Dum Biryani that your family and guests will adore. Happy cooking!