Quinoa Vegetable Biryani

Quinoa is a complete protein and it contains heart-healthy fats, a good amount of fiber and folic acid. It’s a great source of minerals too. Along with Quinoa, I have used different veggies like carrots, bell pepper, broccoli and cauliflower which are a great source of fiber and vitamins.

The rice is replaced by nutty quinoa, a wonder food and one of the best sources of vegetarian protein, paneer's addition makes it more filling.

This vegan quinoa biryani is indulgent and healthy, with the nutritious vegetables and paneer providing a nutritious & protein component that perfectly complements the nutty flavour of quinoa.

INGREDIENTS

2 cups quinoa

2 cups water 

1 tsp ghee

1 tbsp oil

½ cup almonds and cashews 

TEMPERING

2 tbsp oil

1 tsp fennel seeds

2 inch cinnamon 

4 cloves

4 cardamom 

2 star anise 

3 bay leaves 

1 onion sliced 

3 tbsp ginger garlic crushed 

4-5 green chilli chopped

3 cups mixed vegetables

(broccoli, cauliflower, carrot, potato) 

1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)

Few paneer pieces 

SPICES

2 tbsp chilli powder

2 tbsp coriander powder 

2 tbsp dried mint leaves (or ½ cup fresh leaves) 

Salt to taste 

METHOD 

Switch on the instant pot in saute mode or pressure cooker on heat. 

Add the ghee and 1 tbsp oil to the pan and once hot add in the nuts and roast them until golden brown. Drain the nuts and set aside.

In the same pot add the 2 tbsp oil along with the Tempering ingredients and fry for 2 minutes. 

Add in the sliced onions and fry for couple of minutes then add in the green chilli, ginger and garlic, saute until the raw smell leaves. 

Next add in the hard vegetable (potatoes, carrot, etc) fry this for couple of minutes then add the paneer pieces and keep frying for 3 minutes. 

Now add the drained quinoa along with the Spices and saute for 2 minutes. 

Add the water and give it a nice mix. 

Now add the soft vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, capsicum, peas, etc on the top and without mixing cover the lid. 

Switch off the saute mode in instant pot and using pressure cook mode cook this for 2 minutes on high pressure. If using stove top pressure cooker then cook it for 4 whistles. 

Let the pressure release naturally before opening the lid. 

Once the pressure is released open the lid and give it a nice mix and add in the roasted nuts and mix. 

Serve it hot with your favourite raita and enjoy!!!