Brown Rice Biryani: A Healthy Twist to a Classic Dish

Brown rice biryani is a nutritious and flavorful twist to the traditional biryani, offering a healthier alternative without compromising on taste. Made with fragrant spices, mixed vegetables, and long-grain brown rice, this dish is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Enjoy the aromatic flavors of brown rice biryani for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup brown basmati rice, soaked for 30 minutes
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, cauliflower, etc.)
• 1/4 cup yogurt
• 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
• 1 bay leaf
• 2-3 cloves
• 2-3 green cardamom pods
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon biryani masala
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
• Fried onions for garnish (optional)
• Saffron strands soaked in warm milk (optional)

Method:

1. Heat ghee or oil in a large pan or pressure cooker. Add the whole spices - bay leaf, cloves, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, and cumin seeds. Saute until fragrant.
2. Add the sliced onions and saute until golden brown.
3. Add the ginger-garlic paste and saute until the raw smell disappears.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and mushy.
5. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for a few minutes.
6. Add the soaked brown basmati rice and mix well to coat the rice with the spices and vegetables.
7. Add yogurt, turmeric powder, biryani masala, and salt. Mix well.
8. Add 2 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil. If using a pressure cooker, close the lid and cook for 2 whistles on medium heat. If using a pan, cover with a lid and cook until the rice is cooked through.
9. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it gently with a fork.
10. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves, fried onions (if using), and saffron soaked in milk (optional).
11. Serve hot with raita or your favorite side dish.

Conclusion:

Indulge in the aromatic flavors of brown rice biryani, a healthy twist to the classic dish that is both nutritious and delicious. Packed with wholesome ingredients and fragrant spices, this biryani is sure to tantalize your taste buds while providing essential nutrients for your well-being.