Healthy Mixed Vegetable Biryani Recipe – an unofficial Slimming World biryani

Whilst this mixed vegetable biryani recipe includes potato, onion, green beans and carrots it could easily be adapted to any vegetables you fancy really. Have an experiment and see what varieties you can make.

Just Average Jen is an independent blog not connected with any weight loss plan. Please check nutritional values and/or syns yourself.

Healthy Lunches

If you are eating healthily then you may have difficulty in finding lunches for work. This is just one of many amazing Slimming World lunch ideas I have found so do check out my other recipes for more ideas.

If you take lunch then you are so much less likely to buy food which inevitably will be less healthy. Taking a variety of food throughout the week to work keeps your lunchtimes interesting and stops you from getting bored.

Even if, like me, you work alone at home it can make such a difference having your food already prepared for you. Why not give it a go and make sure you build a variety of lunches into your weekly meal plan.

Shopping tips for this mixed vegetable biryani

I try to ensure all of the recipes I make are accessible to everyone and this mixed vegetable biryani is no exception. By this, I mean that they do not use obscure hard-to-find ingredients.

I also believe that recipes should use as few ingredients as possible and avoid expensive ingredients. We would all much rather spend money on holidays than expensive ingredients wouldn’t we?

Buying herbs and spices in bulk is something I really recommend. It can save a lot of money in the long term but also mean you never run out! I find putting them on Amazon subscribe and save helps too!

Shopping around to see which shops have offers on your usual products can make a big difference to your weekly shopping bill. Additionally don’t forget to check out the yellow sticker reductions and freeze what you can.

Frozen vegetables are nutritionally just as good as fresh usually so do keep an eye out for those too to save money in a recipe like this it won’t make much if any difference.

The importance of adding vegetables to your meals

If you follow Slimming World then you will know many vegetables are referred to as speed foods and this recipe contains many.

Vegetables are low in calories compared to their density and this essentially means that they fill you up for very few calories.

The more vegetables you have in a meal either as a side dish or mixed in with the meal itself the lower-calorie the meal tends to be. A filling but low-calorie meal is perfect for weight loss.

All my recipes include vegetables where possible but do feel free to add more as an accompaniment when you can. Always choose vegetables that you enjoy because otherwise you will begrudge eating them and are more likely to before long stop cooking them at all.

Trying vegetables cooked differently for example steamed, fried or roasted helps add variety. Alternatively cooking with herbs and spices can make them a little more exciting too.

Why biryani is great for weight loss

This is a great recipe if you follow Slimming World, Weight Watchers (WW), Noom or any other weight loss plan. It essentially is rice and vegetables so great for filling you up healthily.

It is of course important to check yourself for any plan you follow and remember all nutritional information and ingredients are found in the recipe card below.

Cooking Methods for Vegetable Biryani

1. Traditional Dum Cooking: This method involves layering partially cooked rice with vegetables and slow-cooking it on low heat. It infuses the rice with rich flavours but takes more time.
2. Pressure Cooker: A quicker method where all ingredients are cooked together under pressure. This method retains moisture and flavors well.
3. Instant Pot: Similar to the pressure cooker method but more convenient for those who own an Instant Pot. It offers precise control over cooking time and pressure.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutes

Vegan Options: Replace yogurt with coconut milk or almond milk yogurt. Use oil instead of ghee.

Vegetables: You can use a variety of vegetables like peas, cauliflower, peppers, and mushrooms. Feel free to experiment with your favourites.

Mint leaves: Fresh mint leaves add a refreshing touch to the biryani.

Garam masala: A good garam masala is essential for the perfect biryani.

Yogurt marinade: Marinating the vegetables in yogurt helps tenderise them and adds flavour.

Basmati rice: Using aged basmati rice ensures that the grains remain separate and fluffy.

Aromatic spices: The aromatic spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon give the biryani its distinctive flavour. Try not to compromise on them.

Serving Suggestions

• Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side dish that complements the spices in biryani.
• Shorba: A light, spiced soup that pairs well with biryani.
• Mirchi ka Salan: A spicy chili and peanut curry that adds an extra layer of flavour.

Cultural and Historical Context

Biryani is believed to have been brought to India by the Mughals, who introduced various culinary techniques and dishes. It is a celebratory dish in many cultures, especially in India, where it is commonly served at festivals and special occasions.

Nutritional Information for takeaway biryani

• Calories per Serving: Approximately 532 to 663 calories, depending on the recipe and ingredients used.
• Nutritional Value: Rich in vitamins and minerals due to the variety of vegetables used, making it a nutritious one-dish meal.

More Healthy recipes you may enjoy

If you like this mixed vegetable biryani and are a curry fan then do check out this post full of curry tips and recipes.

If you don’t fancy this but would like another recipe with rice check out my huge selection of rice recipes including a really tasty mushroom risotto and check out my tips for cooking the perfect rice!

If you are vegetarian or want to eat more vegetarian or plant-based meals I have a full list of vegetarian and vegan recipes which are perfect on Slimming World.

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