Vegetable biryani

An Indian vegan dish built on whole ingredients.

Servings: 4
Active time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h

Organic sourcing

Leafy cilantro and root ginger can be high in pesticide residue, so buying organic makes a difference. Carrots are also on the Dirty Dozen list.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups basmati rice
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch ginger, grated
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1/2 cup carrot, diced
• 1/2 cup green beans, chopped
• 1/2 cup green peas
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp garam masala
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cloves
• 2 green cardamom pods
• 2 cups water
• to taste salt
• a handful fresh cilantro, chopped

Method

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak in water for 20 minutes, then drain.
2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat and fry the sliced onion until golden and crispy. Remove half for garnish.
3. Add the garlic and ginger to the pot, sauté until fragrant.
4. Stir in the cauliflower, carrot, green beans, and peas. Cook for about 5 minutes until slightly tender.
5. Add the tomatoes, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Cook until the tomatoes soften.
6. Add the rice, bay leaf, cloves, and cardamom pods to the pot. Stir gently to coat the rice in spices.
7. Pour in 2 cups of water and add salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
8. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
9. Garnish with the reserved fried onions and fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

• You can vary the vegetables based on seasonal availability.
• For added richness, consider a few saffron strands steeped in warm water.
• Serve with a side of raita or pickles.

Source

Paraphrased from the culinary canon by Organic.is editors, 2026. Classic Indian recipe. If you'd like a specific source for further reading, ask Tinni (bottom-right) for a book recommendation.