Paneer Biryani is rice flavored and layered with spices and cottage cheese/paneer. Paneer Biryani is a delight for all paneer lovers.

The spices and condiments used in biryani may include, but are not limited to, ghee, nutmeg, mace, pepper, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, bay leaves, coriander, mint leaves, ginger, onions, and garlic. The name ‘biryani’ is derived from the Persian word beryā (n) which means “fried” or “roasted”.

Ingredients  For masala2 cups basmati rice250 grams paneer cut into piecesWhole garam masala(shahi jeera,nutmeg, mace, pepper, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, bay leaves)2 onions sliced2 tbsp ginger garlic paste2 tomatoes sliced5-6 sliced green chillies½ cup chopped mint leaves2 tbsp yoghurt2 tbsp chilli powder2 tbsp biryani masala1 tbsp turmeric powder½ cup green peas1 cup red,green and yellow capsicum sliced4 tbsp gheesalt as per tastecoriander leavesFor garnishingOnion – 1, finely sliced & friedFried Cashews & raisins – a handfulGheeYellow and red food color diluted in milkCoriander & Mint leaves

MethodCook the rice and keep it aside.  In a deep pan, heat oil and fry the paneer pieces till goldern brown.  Take another pan and heat ghee.Add sliced onions and whole garam masala.  Once the onions are translucent add ginger garlic paste.Now add sliced tomatoes. Let it cook for 5 mins.Add mint leaves Add biryani masala, chilli powder and yoghurt. Let everything cook for 10 mins

Finally add fried paneer cubes, veggies and coriander leaves. The paneer masala is ready.

 Heat a non-stick pan, add the onions and cashew/raisins and dry roast on a medium flame stirring continuously till the onions turn brown.  Start layering the rice with the masala now.Take a heavy bottomed vessel/non stick pan. Add a spoon of ghee. Put one layer of rice. Now add another layer of paneer masala. Again spread layer of plain rice. Add 2 spoons of colored milk. Now add the caramelized onions with cashewnuts and raisins. Repeat these steps for next 2 layers and cover the pan with a tight lid.

Heat a tava, when it is really hot, place the biriyani vessel on top of that. Reduce the heat to the lowest flame & cook for 20-25 mins. Keep the heat at the lowest flame throughout, otherwise it might get burnt.

Garnish the rice with coriander leaves and serve it hot with raita.

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