Description
Easy Vegetarian Paneer Biryani Recipe for Cozy Nights In
Ingredients
Scale
- 250 grams Paneer (Opt for Indian-style paneer for authenticity)
- 1 cup Greek Yogurt
- 2 teaspoons Garam Masala
- 2 tablespoons Slivered Mint (Cilantro is a suitable substitute)
- 1 tablespoon Garlic & Ginger Paste
- 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Adjust according to spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar (Honey or maple syrup can work as alternatives)
- 1 tablespoon Lime Zest (Fresh lime juice can substitute)
- 1.5 cups Basmati Rice (You can use jasmine rice if necessary)
- 4 pieces Whole Spices (Cinnamon Stick, Star Anise, Cloves, Cardamom)
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (Regular tomatoes, chopped, are fine too)
- 2 cups Vegetable Broth (Water can be used if in a bind)
- 2 tablespoons Cilantro or Mint (for garnish) (Optional)
- 1 medium Cucumber (Grate or finely chop for best texture)
- 1 cup Yogurt (Greek yogurt gives a thicker consistency)
Instructions
- Marinate Paneer: In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, garam masala, slivered mint, garlic, ginger paste, red pepper flakes, brown sugar, lime zest, and salt. Gently toss in paneer cubes and marinate for about 30 minutes.
- Sauté Base: In a large sauté pan, heat ghee over medium heat. Add the rinsed basmati rice and toast it for 5 minutes until it’s lightly golden. Add the whole spices and sauté for an additional 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cherry tomato halves along with the marinated paneer and any leftover marinade. Cook this mixture for 5 minutes.
- Simmer: Pour in vegetable broth, cover the pan, and let it simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Rest: Once cooked, turn off the heat and let it rest for 10 minutes with the lid on.
- Serve: Fluff the rice gently, remove the whole spices, and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or mint.
Notes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg