Vegetable Dum Biryani

Instructions

1. 1

   Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2. 2

   Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter.

3. 3

   Add the sliced onion and sauté until golden brown.

4. 4

   Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté for another 2 minutes.

5. 5

   Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.

6. 6

   Add the mixed vegetables, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

7. 7

   Stir in the yogurt, chopped cilantro, and mint leaves. Cook for another 2 minutes and then remove from heat.

8. 8

   In a separate pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the soaked and drained rice, and cook until the rice is 70% cooked. Drain the rice and set aside.

9. 9

   In a heavy-bottomed pot, layer half of the vegetable mixture at the bottom. Add a layer of half of the partially cooked rice on top.

10. 10

    Repeat the layers with the remaining vegetable mixture and rice.

11. 11

    Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over the top layer of rice.

12. 12

    Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

13. 13

    Remove from heat and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

14. 14

    Fluff the rice gently with a fork and serve hot.