Vegetable Biryani
 
Prep time
Cook time
Total time
 
Serves: 4-6
Ingredients
  • ½ bunch cilantro, washed and chopped
  • ½ cup frozen mixed vegetables washed
  • 1.5 tablespoons of Biryani paste (we used Patak’s paste) or 3 tablespoons of Biryani masala powder **see notes below
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon jeera (cumin seeds)
  • 1.5 large onions sliced thin
  • ¼ teaspoon garam masala powder
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tablespoons minced ginger
  • 3 cloves of garlic minced
  • 2 green chilies minced
  • 2 roma tomatoes diced
  • 1 large bell pepper (capsicum) cut into chunks (you may use any color)
  • 1 medium potato peeled, washed and cut into chunks
  • 1 cup rice washed
  • 2 cups water
  • Small handful of fresh or dry mint leaves
  • ¼ bunch cilantro chopped
Instructions
  1. Turn on InstaPot to SAUTE mode
  2. Add oil to pot and allow to heat for 1-2 minutes; the oil will become thin and move to the edges of the pot
  3. Add sliced onions into the pot and allow to caramelize (turn brown) for about 5-7 minutes- use a glass lid to cover the InstantPot while the onions are cooking; stir occasionally
  4. Once caramelized, remove the onions into a separate bowl and keep aside
  5. Add to the InstantPot the rice, water, mixed vegetables, biryani paste or powder, garam masala, lime juice, ginger, garlic, chilies, tomatoes, bell pepper, potato, jeera (cumin), salt, cilantro and mint leaves (all remaining ingredients)
  6. Stir well to incorporate all ingredients
  7. Allow to simmer for 5 minutes with a glass lid on the InstantPot
  8. Layer the caramelized onions on top of the biryani mixture-do not mix
  9. Close and lock the lid of the InstantPot
  10. Turn vent on the lid to CLOSE VENT to prevent steam from escaping
  11. Turn OFF the InstantPot
  12. Set pot to MANUAL mode
  13. Set to HIGH PRESSURE
  14. Set to 5 minutes
  15. After the timer goes off, allow to sit for 2-3 minutes
  16. Manually release the steam by opening the vent. The silver prong will drop back into the lid. BE CAREFUL OF THE HOT STEAM
  17. Open the lid of the InstantPot
  18. Serve, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and enjoy!
Notes
Variations:
Use any brand of Biryani paste or masala powder you prefer
Add more chilies if you want a spicier dish
Add more biryani paste or masala for a more intense flavor
You may add any other vegetable you like to this dish: cauliflower, green beans, etc etc.

NO ONION/NO GARLIC VARIATION: You can take out the onion and garlic from the recipe and continue with the other steps.

VEGAN VARIATION: This recipe is completely vegan!
Recipe by Instapottin' With Poonam at https://www.instapottinwithpoonam.com/vegetable-biryani/