Biryani is one of the most popular and beloved dishes in the world, known for its aromatic spices and rich flavors. But, if you’re looking for a healthier, yet equally delicious twist on this classic dish, the Veg Soya Biryani is a fantastic choice. Packed with protein-rich soya chunks and a medley of fresh vegetables, this dish is not only filling but also nutritious. It’s a perfect way to incorporate more plant-based protein into your diet, and the best part is, even kids will love it!
Here’s how you can make Veg Soya Biryani at home.
Ingredients for Veg Soya Biryani:
- Soya chunks – 1 cup (soaked in hot water for 10-15 minutes)
- Basmati rice – 1.5 cups (washed and soaked for 30 minutes)
- Mixed vegetables (carrot, beans, peas, potatoes, etc.) – 1.5 cups (chopped)
- Onions – 2 large (finely sliced)
- Tomatoes – 2 medium (chopped)
- Green chilies – 2 (slit)
- Ginger-garlic paste – 1 tablespoon
- Biryani masala – 1.5 tablespoons (or use a garam masala mix)
- Red chili powder – 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric powder – ½ teaspoon
- Cumin seeds – 1 teaspoon
- Bay leaves – 2
- Cinnamon stick – 1 small
- Cloves – 3-4
- Cardamom pods – 2
- Fresh coriander leaves – a handful (chopped)
- Mint leaves – a handful (chopped)
- Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
- Cashews and raisins – a handful (optional)
- Ghee or oil – 3 tablespoons
- Salt – to taste
- Water – 3 cups (for cooking rice)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Soya Chunks:
- Start by soaking the soya chunks in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Once they become soft, drain the water and gently squeeze out any excess liquid. Set them aside.
2. Cook the Rice:
- In a large pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt, a few whole spices (like bay leaves, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom), and the soaked rice.
- Cook the rice until it’s 80% done (al dente). Drain the rice and set aside.
3. Prepare the Biryani Masala:
- Heat ghee or oil in a large pan or pressure cooker. Add cumin seeds and whole spices (bay leaves, cinnamon stick, cardamom, and cloves) and sauté until they release their aroma.
- Add the sliced onions and cook until they turn golden brown. This caramelized onion adds a deep flavor to the biryani.
- Next, add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute, followed by the slit green chilies and chopped tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes turn soft.
4. Add Vegetables and Soya Chunks:
- Add the mixed vegetables and sauté for 2-3 minutes. You can use vegetables like carrots, peas, beans, and potatoes – any mix you prefer.
- Add the squeezed soya chunks and mix them well with the vegetables. Cook for 5-7 minutes.
5. Add Spices:
- Add the biryani masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix everything thoroughly. Let the masala cook for another 2 minutes until it’s aromatic.
6. Layer the Biryani:
- Once the vegetable-soya mixture is ready, layer the cooked rice on top. You can also sprinkle a bit of biryani masala or garam masala at this stage for extra flavor.
- Drizzle some lemon juice and add the chopped mint and coriander leaves on top.
- Optionally, add fried cashews and raisins to give the biryani a rich and sweet flavor.
7. Cook the Biryani:
- Cover the pan tightly and cook on low heat for 10-15 minutes. If using a pressure cooker, you can cook on a very low flame without the weight for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Serve:
- Once done, gently fluff the biryani with a fork to separate the rice grains. Serve your delicious Veg Soya Biryani with raita, salad, or a simple yogurt dip.
Why Choose Veg Soya Biryani?
- High in Protein: Soya chunks are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making this biryani a nutritious meal, especially for vegetarians and vegans.
- Great for Kids: The mild spiciness and fun texture of the soya chunks make it appealing to children. It’s a perfect way to get them to eat more vegetables and legumes.
- Flavorful and Healthy: Packed with fresh vegetables, whole spices, and healthy fats from ghee, this biryani has a rich flavor profile without compromising on health.
Tips for the Best Veg Soya Biryani:
- Soya chunks: Make sure to squeeze out all the excess water from the soya chunks to avoid them becoming soggy.
- Rice: Use long-grain basmati rice for that authentic biryani texture and fragrance.
- Customization: You can add any vegetables of your choice or even paneer cubes for extra richness.
- Spices: Adjust the level of spices based on your taste preference. If you prefer less heat, reduce the quantity of green chilies.
Veg Soya Biryani is a great choice for family meals, special occasions, or when you want to enjoy a flavorful, nutritious dish. With its delightful taste and health benefits, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dining table!
