Quick Chickpea Biryani
This Quick Chickpea Biryani is a flavorful and aromatic one-pot meal, perfect for a busy weeknight. It combines fluffy basmati rice with protein-rich chickpeas and a medley of authentic Indian spices for a satisfying vegan dish.
For 4 servings
Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear. Drain well and set aside. This removes excess starch and helps prevent the rice from becoming sticky.
Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, green cardamom pods, cloves, and cumin seeds. Sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
Add the thinly sliced onion to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. This step is crucial for flavor development.
Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and chopped tomato. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the raw smell of ginger-garlic disappears and the tomatoes soften slightly.
Add the biryani masala powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their aroma.
Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas and the rinsed basmati rice to the pot. Gently stir to combine everything, ensuring the rice and chickpeas are well coated with the spice mixture.
Pour in the hot water or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Cover the pot tightly with a lid.
Simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender. Do not lift the lid during this time, as it allows the steam to cook the rice evenly.
Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it rest, still covered, for another 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the steam to redistribute and the rice grains to firm up.
Uncover, gently fluff the biryani with a fork, mixing in the chopped fresh cilantro and fresh lemon juice. Serve hot with a side of plain vegan yogurt.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Rinse Rice Thoroughly**: Don't skip rinsing the basmati rice. It removes excess starch, ensuring fluffy, separate grains rather than a sticky mess.
- 2**Caramelize Onions**: Take your time browning the onions. Their sweetness and depth of flavor are foundational to a good biryani.
- 3**Low and Slow Simmer**: Once the liquid is added, reduce heat to the lowest setting and resist the urge to lift the lid. This 'dum' cooking method steams the rice perfectly.
- 4**Resting is Key**: Allow the biryani to rest off the heat for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This helps the rice absorb remaining moisture and become perfectly tender.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetable Boost
Add diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers along with the chickpeas for extra nutrients and color. Sauté them briefly with the onions.
Spice Level AdjustmentSpice Level Adjustment
For a spicier biryani, add ½ tsp of red chili powder along with the biryani masala. For milder, reduce the biryani masala slightly.
Protein SwapProtein Swap
While keeping it vegan, you could swap half the chickpeas for firm tofu, pressed and cubed, or add some cooked green lentils for a different texture.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall satiety, making this a fulfilling vegan meal.
High in Dietary Fiber
Both chickpeas and basmati rice contribute significant dietary fiber, promoting digestive health, regulating blood sugar levels, and contributing to a feeling of fullness.
Antioxidant-Rich Spices
The array of Indian spices used, such as turmeric, cinnamon, and cardamom, are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, contributing to overall well-being.
Frequently asked questions
While basmati rice is traditional for biryani, you can use brown basmati. However, it will require more liquid (about 2.5 cups) and a longer cooking time (around 40-45 minutes) due to its higher fiber content.
