Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare Ingredients

   Wash and chop all the mixed vegetables (potatoes, carrots, green beans, peas, broccoli, cauliflower, tomatoes). Slice the onions and chop the green chilies. Cube the paneer.

2. 2.Fry Onions

   Heat cooking oil in a pressure cooker. Add sliced onions and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove about half of the fried onions and set them aside for garnish.

3. 3.Sauté Whole Spices

   To the remaining oil in the cooker, add whole spices: bay leaf, cinnamon stick, green cardamom, cloves, and black peppercorns. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.

4. 4.Marinate Vegetables

   In a large bowl, combine the chopped mixed vegetables, paneer cubes, ginger-garlic paste, biryani masala, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure all vegetables are evenly coated with the spices.

5. 5.Cook Vegetables

   Add the marinated vegetable mixture to the pressure cooker with the sautéed spices. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.

6. 6.Add Rice and Water

   Wash the basmati rice thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear. Add the washed rice to the pressure cooker along with the vegetables. Pour in 3 cups of water.

7. 7.Pressure Cook Biryani

   Gently stir the contents of the cooker. Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook on medium heat for 2-3 whistles. Once cooked, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally.

8. 8.Serve Biryani

   Once the pressure has released, open the cooker and gently fluff the biryani with a fork. Garnish with the reserved fried onions and fresh chopped coriander (if using). Serve hot with raita.