Ingredients

3 large onions , sliced
4 tablespoons butter or 4 tablespoons clarified butter
6 chili peppers , crushed into a paste ( I will use a lesser amount of chili paste or crushed red pepper flakes ) or 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper ( I will use a lesser amount of chili paste or crushed red pepper flakes )
2 tablespoons fresh ginger , minced
10 garlic cloves , minced
1/2 cup dry lentils , pre-soaked
1/2 lb green peas
1/2 lb carrot , chopped
1/2 lb green beans , chopped
3 large tomatoes , chopped
6 whole cloves
4 inches cinnamon sticks
6 cardamom pods , crushed
1 teaspoon turmeric
3 sprigs of fresh mint or 1/2 teaspoon dried mint , pounded
2 cups long-grain white rice , uncooked ( basamati is good )
6 large potatoes , chopped into large chunks
1 -2 teaspoon salt
5 -6 cups hot water
yogurt , to serve
Vegetable Biryani is a popular rice dish in South Africa, often served as a main course for lunch or dinner. This recipe adds a unique flavor with the addition of several aromatic spices such as cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom. The dish is simple, nutritious, and a great way to incorporate vegetables and lentils into your diet. The long-grain white rice compliments the vegetables perfectly, and the spices provide a warm and earthy flavor. This South African recipe is perfect for vegetarians, vegans, and meat-eaters alike.

Instructions

1.Soak the lentils for an hour. Drain them before cooking.
2.In a large pot, heat butter or clarified butter and add sliced onions. Sauté the onions until they turn golden brown.
3.Add crushed chili peppers or chili paste, fresh ginger, and garlic to the pot. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes.
4.Add the pre-soaked lentils, green peas, chopped carrots, green beans, and chopped tomatoes to the pot. Add whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, crushed cardamom pods, turmeric, and pounded mint to the pot. Mix all ingredients well and cook for 5 minutes.
5.Add rice to the pot and mix well with the vegetables so that the rice is well-coated in the mixture.
6.Add chopped potatoes, salt, and hot water to the pot. Stir well and bring to a boil. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to low.
7.Cook for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
8.Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve hot with a side of yogurt.

PROS

Vegetable Biryani is a flavorful and nutritious meal that is easy to prepare and serves a large group.

The variety of vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals, while lentils add protein and fiber to the dish.

CONS

The recipe involves several steps and requires several ingredients.
The preparation time can be lengthy, and the addition of chili peppers may make it too spicy for some.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This recipe contains a variety of vegetables that provide a range of nutrients and antioxidants.
Lentils are a rich source of protein and dietary fiber, which can improve digestion and lower cholesterol levels.
The spices used in this recipe, including ginger and turmeric, have been linked to reducing inflammation and improving heart health.

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