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Green Bean Biryani (Veggie Layered Rice)

Fragrant basmati rice cooked with spiced green beans and caramelized onions, this green bean biryani is a hearty vegetarian dish that’s rich, warming, and full of texture. Serve with cooling yogurt raita for the perfect pairing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups basmati rice
  • 2 tbsp oil or ghee
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch ginger, grated
  • 2 cups green beans, trimmed and cut
  • 1 large tomato, chopped
  • 2 tbsp plain yogurt
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • ½ tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 ½ cups water or vegetable broth
  • Fresh mint or cilantro to garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse basmati rice under cold water until clear. Soak for 20 minutes, then drain.
  2. Heat oil or ghee in a large pot. Add cumin seeds and sauté for 30 seconds.
  3. Add sliced onions and cook until golden brown, about 10 minutes.
  4. Stir in garlic and ginger, cook for 1 minute. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until softened.
  5. Add green beans, turmeric, coriander, chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Stir well.
  6. Mix in yogurt and let it cook for another 2 minutes until well combined.
  7. Add soaked rice and stir gently to coat with spices. Pour in water or broth.
  8. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover tightly and simmer for 15–18 minutes, until rice is cooked and liquid absorbed.
  9. Fluff gently with a fork. Garnish with fresh mint or cilantro before serving.

Notes

  • Soaking the rice helps achieve fluffy grains that don’t stick together.
  • For added richness, layer fried onions and saffron-infused milk before steaming.
  • Serve with yogurt raita or a simple cucumber salad to balance spices.

Nutrition

Keywords: green bean biryani, vegetarian biryani, spiced rice, Indian rice dish, layered vegetable biryani