Swig's Veg Biryani features fragrant basmati rice layered with vibrant mixed vegetables, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs, cooked to perfection and garnished with crispy fried onions, delivering a flavorful and colorful vegetarian feast.
Equipments
- Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Large mixing bowl
- Strainer or colander
- Rice cooker (optional)
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Frying pan or skillet
- Slotted spoon
- Mortar and pestle or spice grinder
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plate or tray (for fried onions)
- Cooking spoon
Ingredients
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 1 ½ cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, potatoes, cauliflower)
- 1 large onion
- 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 2-3 green cardamom pods
- 4-5 whole cloves
- 1-2 bay leaves
- 1 small cinnamon stick
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (coriander leaves)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh mint leaves
- 2-3 tablespoons plain yogurt
- Salt to taste
- 2 ½ cups water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fried onions (for garnish)
- Optional: saffron strands soaked in 2 tablespoons warm milk
Using good-quality basmati rice is crucial because it absorbs spices and water evenly, ensuring fluffy layers in your Veg Biryani. Fresh mixed vegetables like carrots, peas, and cauliflower add vibrant color and texture, while the balance of whole spices such as cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon enhances the aromatic profile. Ghee or vegetable oil should be heated to the right temperature to properly saute onions and spices without burning them. Incorporating plain yogurt helps to tenderize the vegetables and blend the spices harmoniously. Your Veg Biryani from Swig's copycat menu promises a rich and flavorful vegetarian dish that maintains the authentic taste and vibrant presentation of the original.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Rinse basmati rice thoroughly and soak in water for 30 minutes; drain.
- Slice onions thinly and set aside.
- Chop all mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat ghee or oil in a frying pan; fry sliced onions until golden and crispy, drain on a plate and reserve for garnish.
- In a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat ghee/oil; add cumin seeds, cardamom, cloves, bay leaves, and cinnamon; sauté until fragrant.
- Add ginger-garlic paste; sauté for 1 minute.
- Add chopped mixed vegetables; cook for 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in turmeric powder, red chili powder, ground coriander, and salt.
- Add yogurt, mix well, and cook until vegetables are slightly tender.
- Add drained rice and gently stir to combine with vegetables and spices.
- Add 2 ½ cups water and lemon juice; bring to a gentle boil.
- Sprinkle chopped mint and cilantro over the rice mixture.
- (Optional) Drizzle saffron milk over the top for aroma and color.
- Cover tightly; reduce heat to low and cook for 18–20 minutes until rice is cooked and water is absorbed.
- Turn off heat; let the biryani rest, covered, for 10 minutes.
- Fluff gently with a spoon.
- Garnish with fried onions before serving.
Substitution
Swig's Veg Biryani offers an aromatic experience combining basmati rice, fresh vegetables, and traditional Indian spices. You can substitute ghee with vegetable oil or coconut oil to keep the dish vegan while maintaining rich flavor. Should basmati rice be unavailable, jasmine rice can be a worthy alternative, though the texture will slightly differ. If fresh herbs like mint or cilantro are out of season, dried versions may be used, but adjust quantities for potency. Incorporating saffron is optional but adds a distinct fragrance and vibrant color to elevate your biryani.
Tips
Rinsing and soaking basmati rice for 30 minutes ensures fluffy grains and prevents sticking during cooking. Using a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven helps distribute heat evenly, avoiding burnt spices or vegetables. Be careful to cover the pot tightly and cook on low heat for 18-20 minutes to allow the rice to absorb water fully and cook properly. When garnishing, crisp fried onions add essential texture and flavor to enhance your biryani experience.
Nutritions
Swig's Veg Biryani offers a balanced nutritional profile rich in complex carbohydrates from basmati rice and essential vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants from the mixed vegetables such as carrots, peas, and cauliflower. The use of ghee or vegetable oil contributes healthy fats, while spices like turmeric and cumin provide anti-inflammatory and digestion-boosting properties. Inclusion of yogurt adds probiotics and protein, supporting gut health and muscle maintenance. Your meal is also enhanced with fresh herbs like cilantro and mint, which add micronutrients and aid in flavor without additional calories.
Storage
Store Swig's Veg Biryani in an airtight container to maintain its aroma and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and safety. Reheat thoroughly before serving to restore the flavors and texture of the basmati rice and mixed vegetables.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute basmati rice with jasmine rice for a slightly different aroma and texture without compromising the dish's authenticity. For a vegan variation, replace yogurt with coconut milk or cashew cream to maintain creaminess and subtle tang. Toasting whole spices in the pot before adding vegetables can intensify flavors, enhancing the biryani's fragrance. Experiment with adding roasted cashews or raisins for added crunch and sweetness, creating a richer and more textured experience.
Allergies
Swig's Veg Biryani contains common allergens such as dairy from yogurt and ghee, which can trigger reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The dish also includes spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon that may cause sensitivities in some people. You should always check ingredient labels carefully and consult with a healthcare professional if you have known food allergies before enjoying this flavorful meal.
Why this recipe?
Veg Biryani from Swig restaurant boasts a perfect balance of aromatic basmati rice, fresh seasonal vegetables, and traditional Indian spices, creating an authentic and flavorful experience. The carefully curated blend of spices like saffron, cardamom, and cloves elevates the dish's taste, making it a favorite among diverse palates. You will enjoy replicating this recipe because it offers a delicious, healthy, and visually appealing meal that caters to both vegetarians and those seeking comfort food. Mastering this copycat dish allows you to bring Swig's signature flavors into your kitchen with impressive simplicity.