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Mushroom Biryani

This mushroom biryani is a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome, plant-based meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The dish is infused with the perfect blend of spices like cumin, cardamom, and cinnamon, complemented by the earthy flavor of mushrooms and the delicate touch of saffron. It’s a comforting and nutritious option for those looking for a satisfying meal that’s both healthy and flavorful.
This biryani is packed with bold flavors and textures that make it a comforting go-to recipe.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Servings 6 People
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Wide Pan
  • 1 One Set of measuring cups
  • 1 Set of Measuring Spoons
  • 1 Cutting Boards and Knives

Ingredients
  

Whole Spices:

  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 2 whole cloves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 Star anise
  • 1 mace javitri
  • 4 green cardamom pods
  • 1 black cardamom pod
  • 2 inch cinnamon stick

Vegetables & Aromatics:

  • 2 medium onions( about 2 cups) sliced
  • 2 green chilies slit (optional)
  • 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 lb 450 g white mushrooms thickly sliced or quartered
  • 1/3 cup tomato sauce or 2 medium tomatoes
  • 1/3 cup fresh coriander leaves chopped
  • 1/4 cup fried onions
  • 2 tsp lemon juice

Spices & Seasonings:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil or oil of your choice
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp chili powder or paprika
  • 2 tbsp biryani masala premade store bought
  • 1 tsp salt or to taste

Rice & Liquids:

  • 1.5 cups basmati rice soaked for at least 30 minutes
  • 3 cups hot water
  • A few strands of saffron soaked in 1/4 cup warm oat milk

Garnish:

  • Fried onions
  • Toasted nuts
  • Fresh chopped coriander

Instructions
 

Wash the Rice:

  • Wash the rice a few times until the water runs clear. Soak the rice while you make the mushroom mixture.

Mix Saffron:

  • Mix saffron with ¼ cup milk and set aside.

Heat the Oil and Spices:

  • In a large heavy-bottomed pan, heat ¼ cup oil over medium heat. Add the whole spices: cumin, bay leaf, star anise, mace, cardamom pods, cloves, mace, and the cinnamon stick. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Sauté the Vegetables:

  • Add the sliced onions and green chilies (if using) to the pan. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until the onions turn golden brown. Then, add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for 2 more minutes until the raw smell disappears.

Cook the Mushrooms:

  • Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until they shrink slightly.

Add Tomato Sauce and Herbs:

  • Pour in the tomato sauce and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the chopped coriander leaves and cook until the mixture becomes aromatic.

Add Ground Spices:

  • Lower the heat and add turmeric, chili powder or paprika, biryani masala, and salt. Sauté the spices for 1 to 2 minutes until their aroma is released.

Layer the Rice and Masala:

  • Spread the cooked masala mixture evenly at the bottom of the pan. Drain the soaked rice and lay it on the masala without stirring.

Add Liquids:

  • Top the rice with fried onions, chopped coriander, and saffron-infused milk. Gently pour 3 cups of hot water along the sides of the pan, ensuring the rice and masala layers remain undisturbed.
  • Drizzle 2 tsp lemon juice over the rice. Bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Garnish and Serve:

  • Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with toasted nuts, fried onions, and fresh coriander. Serve your mushroom biryani with raita or your favorite side dish. Enjoy!

Video

Notes

1. Use Long-Grain Rice: Basmati rice gives the best texture and fragrance.
2. Prep Vegetables: Use a mix of fresh, colorful veggies like carrots, beans, peas, and cauliflower
3. Spices Matter: Use biryani masala, bay leaves, and cardamom for authentic flavor.
4. Serve Hot: Pair with vegan raita or a cucumber salad for a complete meal.
5. To add protein add tofu or boiled chickpeas
6. Calories count is an estimate
Keyword biryani, rice dish