Bell Pepper and Peas Biryani Recipe: A Flavorful Vegetarian Delight

Bell Pepper and Peas Biryani is a vibrant and nutritious twist on the classic biryani. Featuring the crunch of bell peppers and the sweetness of peas, this dish is both flavorful and satisfying. The combination of aromatic spices and fluffy basmati rice makes it a perfect meal for any occasion. Follow this guide to create a colorful and delicious Bell Pepper and Peas Biryani that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

For the Rice:

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 4 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
• 1 bay leaf
• 4-5 green cardamom pods
• 2-3 cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick

For the Vegetable Mixture:

• 1 large bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 large onion, finely sliced
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped

For the Garnish:

• 1/4 cup fried onions
• 1/4 cup cashew nuts, roasted
• Saffron strands soaked in 2 tablespoons warm milk

Preparation

Cooking the Rice

1. Rinse the Basmati Rice: Wash the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
2. Boil the Rice: In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add salt, ghee or oil, bay leaf, cardamom pods, cloves, and cinnamon stick.
3. Cook the Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the boiling water. Cook until the rice is 70-80% done. It should be firm and not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.

Preparing the Vegetable Mixture

1. Cook the Spices: Heat ghee or oil in a large pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
2. Add Aromatics: Stir in ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Cook until the raw smell disappears.
3. Spice it Up: Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Sauté for a minute until the spices are well combined.
4. Add Vegetables: Add the diced bell pepper and green peas. Cook until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant. Season with salt to taste and stir in chopped coriander and mint leaves.

Layering and Dum Cooking

1. First Layer of Rice: In a heavy-bottomed pot, spread a layer of partially cooked rice.
2. Vegetable Mixture Layer: Spread the vegetable mixture evenly over the rice.
3. Repeat Layers: Continue layering rice and vegetable mixture, finishing with a layer of rice on top.
4. Garnish and Flavor: Sprinkle fried onions, roasted cashew nuts, and saffron milk over the top layer of rice.
5. Dum Cooking: Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. If needed, seal the edges with dough to trap steam. Cook on low heat for 25-30 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Bell Pepper and Peas Biryani hot with a side of raita (yogurt mixed with cucumber and spices) and a fresh salad. This colorful biryani pairs wonderfully with a cooling yogurt drink or a sweet mango lassi, making it a delightful and satisfying meal.

Tips for the Perfect Bell Pepper and Peas Biryani

Choosing the Right Rice

• Basmati Rice: The long grains and aromatic nature of basmati rice are ideal for biryani. Ensure it is well-rinsed and soaked for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

Vegetable Texture

• Cook to Tender: Ensure that bell peppers and peas are cooked until tender but still retain their color and crunch. Avoid overcooking to maintain texture.

Spice Balance

• Adjust to Taste: Modify the spice levels according to your preference. For a milder biryani, reduce the amount of red chili powder and green chilies.

Cooking Technique

• Dum Cooking: This slow-cooking method is crucial for melding the flavors and achieving the perfect biryani texture. Ensure the pot is tightly sealed to trap steam and infuse the flavors.

Health Benefits of Bell Pepper and Peas Biryani

Bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber, while peas offer protein, vitamins, and minerals. Together, they provide a nutritious boost to the biryani, supporting overall health and well-being.

Variations to Try

Vegan Bell Pepper and Peas Biryani

Substitute ghee with a plant-based oil to make the dish vegan-friendly. Ensure that all other ingredients are vegan to accommodate dietary preferences.

Chicken Bell Pepper Biryani

Add cooked chicken pieces to the vegetable mixture for a non-vegetarian option. The combination of tender chicken with bell peppers and peas enhances the flavor profile.

Mixed Vegetable Biryani

Incorporate additional vegetables such as carrots, beans, and potatoes along with bell peppers and peas for a hearty and colorful biryani.

Conclusion

The Bell Pepper and Peas Biryani Recipe offers a delightful and nutritious twist on the classic biryani, combining the freshness of bell peppers and peas with aromatic spices and basmati rice. This colorful and satisfying dish is perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit with everyone.