Masala tofu biryani

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Basmati rice

• 200 grams tofu, cubed

• 1 onion, sliced

• 1 tomato, chopped

• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

• 1 green chili, slit

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1 bay leaf

• 2-3 cloves

• 2-3 cardamom pods

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1 teaspoon red chili powder

• 2 teaspoons biryani masala powder

• 1/2 cup yogurt

• 2 cups water

• Fresh coriander and mint leaves, chopped

• Salt to taste

• Fried onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Prep the Rice:Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.

Cook the Tofu:Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat.

Add the cubed tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Spices:In the same pan, heat the remaining oil.

Add the cumin seeds, bay leaf, cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon stick. Sauté until fragrant.

Cook the Vegetables:Add the sliced onion and sauté until golden brown.Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chili, and sauté for another minute.Add the chopped tomato and cook until soft.

Mix in the Spices and Vegetables:Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and biryani masala powder. Mix well.Add the mixed vegetables and cook for a few minutes.

Combine Tofu and Yogurt:Add the cooked tofu back into the pan.Stir in the yogurt and mix well to coat everything with the spices.

Cook the Rice:Add the soaked and drained rice to the pan.Pour in 2 cups of water and add salt to taste.Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.

Garnish and Serve:Once cooked, gently fluff the biryani with a fork.Garnish with chopped coriander and mint leaves, and fried onions if using.Serve hot with raita or your favorite side dish.

Enjoy your Tofu Mix Masala Biryani!