Vegan Biryani Recipe

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups white basmati rice (see notes*)
• 2 to 3 tablespoons of cooking oil (olive oil, grapeseed etc,..)
• 1 large yellow or red onion, diced or sliced thin
• 3 to 4 cloves of garlic, finely chopped minced or paste
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated and chopped or paste
• 2 teaspoons salt, kosher or table salt
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Pinch of black pepper
• 1 medium tomato, chopped with the juices
• 3 and 1/2 cups good quality vegetable broth (see notes for options*)
• 2 cups peeled and chopped potatoes, bite size (I like yukon gold)
• 1 cup small cauliflower florets
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1/2 cup grated carrot
• 1/2 cup frozen green peas
• 1/3 cup raisins, rough chopped (I prefer sultana could use golden raisins)
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped small
• 3 star anise (plop on the top when boiling before adding lid)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. First wash/rinse the basmati rice (important step!): add rice to a large bowl and cover with cold water. Swish the rice around with your fingers. The water will be cloudy. Drain, refill and repeat until water runs clear. Refill with cold water, let soak for 20 minutes, drain and set aside. 
2. Prep all ingredients, measure salt and spices in a bowl set aside (makes it easier later)
3. In a large pot (I use my 4 qt dutch oven) saute the onions and oil over medium heat for 8-12 minutes until golden brown, stirring frequently. Stir in the garlic, ginger, salt, spices and tomatoes. Cook for 30 seconds or so.
4. Stir in the broth, veggies, rice and the rest of the ingredients. Bring to a boil on high heat, give it a stir. Add star anise to the top. Cover with a heavy tight fitting lid, then reduce to a good simmer (medium-low), and cook for 10 minutes. Remove from the heat, do not remove the lid and let sit for 10 minutes undisturbed.
5. Gently Stir and fluff with a fork. Enjoy with a side of raita and/or any optional toppings listed in the notes section! (see instant pot option below)