Biryani is one of the most iconic rice dishes in the world. Known for its layers of fragrant spices, long-grain rice, and deeply satisfying flavor, biryani has roots in South Asian cuisine but has global appeal. While traditional versions often include meat or dairy, this vegan biryani recipe delivers the same indulgent experience—100% plant-based.
Whether you’re making dinner for guests or meal prepping for the week, this one-pot wonder will win hearts with its rich aromas and colorful presentation. Let’s explore how to make an authentic, easy vegan biryani that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Biryani
-
Totally plant-based—no meat, no dairy
-
One-pot meal with simple ingredients
-
Flavor-packed from whole spices and aromatics
-
Great for batch cooking and leftovers
-
Naturally gluten-free and soy-free
Ingredients
For the Vegetable Layer:
-
2 tablespoons oil (coconut or avocado recommended)
-
1 large onion, thinly sliced
-
2 garlic cloves, minced
-
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
-
1 large carrot, diced
-
1 cup green beans, chopped
-
1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
-
1 bell pepper, diced
-
1/2 cup cauliflower florets
-
Salt to taste
For the Spice Mix:
-
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
-
4–5 whole cloves
-
2 green cardamom pods
-
1 bay leaf
-
1-inch cinnamon stick
-
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
-
1 teaspoon garam masala
-
1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
-
1 teaspoon coriander powder
For the Rice:
-
1.5 cups basmati rice, rinsed and soaked for 20 minutes
-
3 cups water or vegetable broth
-
Salt to taste
Optional Toppings:
-
2 tablespoons chopped mint
-
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
-
Squeeze of fresh lemon juice
-
Toasted nuts (cashews or almonds)
-
Caramelized onions for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Rinse and Soak the Rice
Start by rinsing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for about 20–30 minutes. This step ensures that the rice stays fluffy and doesn’t break during cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, cloves, cardamom pods, bay leaf, and cinnamon stick. Let them sizzle for 30 seconds until aromatic.
Add the sliced onions and cook until golden and caramelized—this may take 8–10 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger, and sauté for another minute.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Add carrots, green beans, peas, bell pepper, and cauliflower. Stir to combine. Sprinkle in the turmeric, garam masala, red chili powder, coriander powder, and a pinch of salt. Cook the vegetables for 5–6 minutes until slightly tender but not mushy.
Step 4: Layer the Rice and Simmer
Drain the soaked rice and add it on top of the vegetable mixture. Gently spread it into an even layer without stirring. Pour the water or vegetable broth over the rice. Add a pinch of salt.
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Turn the heat to high and bring to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15–18 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this process.
Step 5: Steam and Fluff
After 15–18 minutes, turn off the heat but keep the lid on. Let the biryani rest for another 10 minutes to finish steaming. Then, gently fluff the rice with a fork.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top the biryani with chopped mint, cilantro, lemon juice, and toasted cashews or almonds if desired. Serve hot with a side of vegan raita, pickle, or dairy-free yogurt.
Optional Add-Ons and Variations
This vegan biryani recipe is flexible. Customize it based on what’s in your pantry:
-
Tofu or tempeh: Add pan-fried cubes for extra protein.
-
Chickpeas: Stir in a can of chickpeas during the vegetable stage.
-
Saffron: Steep a pinch of saffron in warm plant milk and drizzle over the rice for color and fragrance.
-
Dried fruit: Add raisins or chopped dates for a hint of sweetness.
-
Layered biryani style: For a more traditional look, cook the rice separately and layer it with cooked vegetables before baking or steaming.
Tips for Perfect Vegan Biryani
-
Use basmati rice: Its long grains and low starch content make it ideal.
-
Don’t overcook the vegetables: They should hold their shape.
-
Avoid stirring once layered: To preserve the rice texture and layering effect.
-
Let it rest: The post-cooking steam time helps flavors develop.
Storage and Meal Prep
This recipe makes fantastic leftovers and stores well:
-
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
-
Freeze: Cool completely and freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
-
Reheat: Add a splash of water and reheat in a covered pan or microwave.
Why Vegan Biryani Is a Weekly Staple
Vegan biryani isn’t just for special occasions. With the right preparation, it can be a weekly staple that satisfies all your cravings for comfort, flavor, and nourishment.
It’s naturally high in fiber, free of cholesterol, and rich in phytonutrients from colorful vegetables and spices. Unlike takeout options that often include cream, butter, or meat, this version gives you full control over the ingredients—without compromising on taste.
It’s also budget-friendly. A single pot can stretch into multiple meals, making it ideal for busy professionals, students, or families cooking on a budget.
What to Serve with Vegan Biryani
While the biryani can shine on its own, here are a few traditional accompaniments:
-
Vegan raita – A cooling dip made from coconut or almond yogurt, cucumber, and mint
-
Spicy mango pickle – For a tangy and bold flavor contrast
-
Cucumber salad – Light and fresh to balance the spices
-
Papadum or roti – For added texture and crunch
A Vegan Lifestyle Beyond the Plate
Choosing to make a dish like vegan biryani isn’t just about avoiding animal products—it’s about honoring flavor, sustainability, and compassion in one delicious recipe. And if you believe in those values, they can extend beyond your kitchen.
At The Dharma Store, you’ll find vegan-themed t-shirts made from organic cotton. Their designs let you wear your beliefs proudly—perfect for anyone living a plant-based lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
Biryani is one of those dishes that brings people together around the table. This vegan biryani recipe takes that tradition and reimagines it with compassion and health in mind—without compromising the flavor that makes biryani so legendary.
The beauty of biryani lies in its layers: rice, spices, vegetables, and love. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or impressing your friends at a plant-based dinner party.
Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a longtime fan, this plant-powered version will earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.