Cauliflower Biryani – Fragrant, Flavorful, and Light

This Cauliflower Biryani is a lighter, veggie-packed twist on the beloved Indian classic. With tender cauliflower florets cooked in a medley of aromatic spices, fluffy rice, and fresh herbs, it delivers the rich flavors of traditional biryani without being overly heavy. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is both satisfying and wholesome.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegetarian-Friendly – Packed with hearty cauliflower instead of meat.
Aromatic & Flavorful – Layers of fragrant spices bring authentic biryani taste.
Lighter Alternative – All the flavor of biryani in a lighter, veggie-rich version.
Perfect for Sharing – A vibrant and colorful dish ideal for gatherings.

Ingredients

For the rice:

• 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups water
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 whole cloves
• 1 small cinnamon stick
• Pinch of salt

For the cauliflower mixture:

• 1 tbsp light oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into small florets
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• ½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp turmeric
• ½ tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste

For garnish:

• Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• Fresh mint leaves, chopped
• Lemon wedges

Instructions

1. Cook the Rice
In a medium pot, bring water, bay leaf, cloves, cinnamon stick, and salt to a boil. Add rinsed rice, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for 12–15 minutes until rice is tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

2. Prepare the Cauliflower Mixture
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
Add cauliflower florets, tomato, yogurt, and spices. Stir well to coat the cauliflower. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender but not mushy.

3. Assemble the Biryani
In a large serving dish or pot, layer half the rice, followed by the cauliflower mixture, then the remaining rice. Cover and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh cilantro, mint, and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 180
Protein: 6g
Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Sugar: 5g
Fiber: 5g

Tips for Success

Don’t Overcook the Cauliflower – Keep it slightly firm to maintain texture.
Adjust Spice to Taste – Add more chili powder for heat or reduce for a milder flavor.
Brighten with Lemon – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving lifts the flavors beautifully.

Why This Recipe Works

By using cauliflower as the star ingredient, this biryani becomes lighter while still delivering all the bold flavors of traditional recipes. The aromatic rice, warming spices, and tender vegetables come together for a dish that’s satisfying, fragrant, and healthy.

This Cauliflower Biryani is a flavorful, wholesome twist on a beloved classic. With its rich spice profile, tender cauliflower, and fluffy rice, it’s a dish that will win over both biryani enthusiasts and veggie lovers alike.