Vegetable Biryani is one of the most fragrant and colorful Indian dishes, loved by food enthusiasts around the world. This flavorful dish, made with long-grain rice, exotic spices, and a variety of fresh vegetables, is not only vegetarian and healthy but also incredibly delicious. In this article, we will guide you step-by-step through a vegetable biryani recipe that is easy to follow and rich in taste. If you’re searching for a new and flavorful dish for your table, stay with us to learn how to make vegetable biryani.
Curious about the types of veggies used in this dish? Check out our full list of vegetables names for more ideas!

Ingredients for Vegetable Biryani Recipe
Serves 4:
- Basmati rice: 2 cups
- Shredded carrot: 1 piece
- Small potato: 1 piece
- Chickpeas: ½ cup
- Colored bell pepper: 1 piece
- Large onion: 1 piece (peeled and fried)
- Grated garlic: 2 cloves
- Fresh grated ginger: 1 teaspoon
- Plain yogurt: ½ cup
- Infused saffron: 1 tablespoon
- Bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cardamom, cloves: as required
- Salt and pepper: as required
- Oil or butter: 2 tablespoons
- Chopped coriander and mint: for garnishing
Easy Vegetable Biryani Recipe
1. Preparing the rice
Soak basmati rice in warm water for 20 minutes. Cook it with salt, bay leaf, and cinnamon until it’s half done. Drain and set aside.
2. Saute the vegetables
In a pan, heat oil or butter and sauté the garlic, ginger, and onion until golden. Add chopped vegetables and fry until they soften slightly.
3. Mix yogurt and spices
Add yogurt, brewed saffron, salt, pepper, and your preferred biryani spices. Let the mixture cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
4. Layer the rice and vegetables
In a pot greased lightly with oil, layer the rice and vegetables alternately. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped mint and coriander.
5. Final steaming
Cover the pot and cook on low heat for 20 minutes. This step ensures your vegetable biryani at home is well-steamed and flavorful.
Some Useful Tips for Vegetable Biryani Cooking
- You can use vegetables like cauliflower, corn, or green beans based on your taste.
- Add a few drops of rose water or lime juice to yogurt for a more unique aroma.
- Using basmati rice enhances the fragrance and texture of your vegetable biryani recipe.
Vegetable Biryani Calories
The number of vegetable biryani calories depends on the ingredients and method of preparation. On average, one 250g serving contains about 350–400 calories. Since it’s made without meat and with less oil, vegetable biryani calories are relatively low, making it a smart choice for a nutritious meal.
Vegetable Biryani Recipe – A Healthy Choice for Vegetarians
Vegetable Biryani is among the most beloved vegetarian dishes, not only by vegetarians but also by anyone seeking a flavorful and healthy meal. Using this vegetable biryani recipe, you can create a vibrant and satisfying dish with simple ingredients and bold Indian spices.
If you’re looking for an easy vegetable biryani recipe, this guide helps you prepare a complete, meat-free meal right in your own kitchen. And with its lower vegetable biryani calories, it’s perfect for those watching their intake.
Important Tips to Make Delicious and Professional Vegetable Biryani
1. Choosing the right rice
Use long-grain basmati rice for the best texture and presentation in your vegetable biryani recipe.
2. Cook rice halfway
Always half-cook the rice separately to ensure it doesn’t become mushy during the final steaming.
3. Use fresh, aromatic spices
Spices like turmeric, garam masala, cardamom, cinnamon, and saffron are essential in a good vegetable biryani recipe. Fry them briefly to bring out their aroma.
4. Fry vegetables just right
Vegetables should be slightly browned but still firm—not mushy. This helps enhance the overall texture and visual appeal.
5. Blend yogurt with spices
Mixing yogurt with spices helps create a rich flavor base. It’s a simple but effective step in your vegetable biryani at home.
6. Gentle steaming is key
Keep the pot covered and steam gently on low heat. This is crucial for infusing the biryani with flavor and aroma.
7. Healthier cooking methods
Worried about vegetable biryani calories? Try steaming the vegetables or using less oil to make it lighter without sacrificing flavor.
By following these practical tips, you’ll be able to make a vegetable biryani at home that’s just as delicious as restaurant versions. This easy vegetable biryani recipe is ideal for those seeking a colorful, healthy, and satisfying vegetarian dish.

Conclusion
In this guide, we explored a detailed vegetable biryani recipe that is both flavorful and easy to make. If you’re seeking variety in your meal plan, this dish is a wonderful addition to your menu. With its vibrant colors, accessible ingredients, and rich taste, it’s an excellent option for those looking to cook a satisfying and healthy vegetarian meal.
Cooking vegetable biryani at home not only brings a new flavor to your table, but it also allows you to control the ingredients and reduce vegetable biryani calories using healthier techniques.
So, if you’re in search of a new and exciting vegetarian recipe, don’t miss trying this vegetable biryani recipe. Enjoy the aroma, taste, and visual appeal of this Indian classic—right from your own kitchen!