Classic Indian Vegetable Biryani Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups basmati rice
• 3 cups mixed vegetables (carrot, peas, green beans, potato, cauliflower)
• 2 medium red onion
• 1 medium tomato
• 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
• 2 medium green chili
• 4 pieces whole cloves
• 3 pieces green cardamom pods
• 1 2-inch piece cinnamon stick
• 1 piece bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 2 1/2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
• 10 threads saffron threads (optional)
• 2 tablespoons warm milk (for saffron, optional)
• 3 cups water