
Flavourful Plain Biryani (Without Meat) – A Fragrant Vegetarian Delight
Looking for a rice dish that’s easy to prepare, deeply aromatic, and perfect as a main or side? This Plain Biryani recipe made with basmati rice, coconut milk, and whole spices is your go-to! Naturally vegetarian and rich with South Indian flavours, this biryani pairs beautifully with curries, kurmas, or even just a bowl of raita.
🌾 Ingredients
- 3 cups long grain basmati rice (washed and drained)
- 5 tablespoons ghee
- A handful of cashews
- A handful of raisins
- 2 pandan leaves, tied into a knot
- 2 tablespoons salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup coconut milk
- A handful of chopped coriander and mint leaves
- Whole spices: 2 bay leaves, 1 cinnamon stick, 1 star anise, 2 cardamom pods, 2 cloves
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon pounded paste (ginger, garlic & fresh turmeric root)
- 1 tablespoon Sampradas Biryani Powder
- 5 cups water
- 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
👩🍳 Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatic Base
Heat ghee in a wide pan over medium heat. Once melted, add the whole spices — bay leaves, cinnamon, star anise, cloves, and cardamom. Let them sizzle for a few seconds to release their flavour.
Next, add the sliced onion, pounded ginger-garlic-turmeric paste, pandan leaves, lemongrass, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown and aromatic.
Step 2: Spice It Up
Add the Sampradas Biryani Powder and mix well. Stir in half of the chopped coriander and mint leaves. Let everything combine and cook for a minute.
Step 3: Combine in Rice Cooker
In a rice cooker, add the washed basmati rice. Pour in the cooked mixture from the pan. Add 1 cup of coconut milk and 5 cups of water. Mix gently.
Now, add the remaining salt and the rest of the coriander and mint leaves. Ensure the saltiness is slightly higher than usual so it absorbs well during cooking.
Let it cook as per your rice cooker’s regular setting.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, gently fluff the rice and garnish with fried cashews and raisins. Serve warm and enjoy every bite of this delicate, flavourful biryani!
✨ Tips & Suggestions
- Use aged long grain basmati rice for the best texture.
- Rinse rice 3–4 times until water runs clear to avoid stickiness.
- Pandan leaves and lemongrass bring a unique aromatic layer.
- Sampradas Biryani Powder is a must-have for a well-balanced spice blend.
🌿 Serving Suggestions
This plain biryani pairs well with:
- Vegetable Kurma
- Brinjal Masala or Curry
- Spicy Fried Tofu
- Simple Onion Raita
🔖 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re cooking for a special celebration or looking for a comforting family meal, this Plain Biryani without meat delivers a rich blend of flavours and fragrance. The addition of coconut milk, pandan, and whole spices makes it truly unforgettable. Try it today and share your feedback with us!
Tag us on Instagram at @sampradas.kitchenessentials when you try it out!
📌 Keywords:
Plain Biryani Recipe, Vegetarian Biryani, South Indian Biryani, Rice Cooker Biryani, Basmati Rice Recipe, Coconut Milk Biryani, Sampradas Biryani Powder, Easy Biryani Recipe
Curious about other Asian comfort food ideas? You might also enjoy this flavourful Braised Tofu with Vegetables — it’s a cozy dish packed with umami and perfect for dinner rotation.
Want to learn more about the health benefits of coconut milk? It’s not just creamy and delicious but also a great plant-based fat alternative!
