Royal Feast: How To Make The Ultimate Paneer Biryani At Home

Paneer Biryani is a mouth-watering twist on the classic biryani — rich, aromatic, and utterly satisfying. With succulent cubes of paneer layered between fragrant rice and spiced masala, it’s a perfect treat for vegetarians and food lovers alike. Here's a simple step-by-step recipe that guarantees restaurant-style taste right at home.

Ingredients:

For Marination:

• 200g paneer (cubed)
• ½ cup curd (yogurt)
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• ½ tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• Salt to taste

For Rice:

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2-3 cloves
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 small cinnamon stick
• Salt (as needed)

For Biryani Masala:

• 2 tbsp oil or ghee
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 small tomato (chopped)
• 1 green chili (slit)
• ½ tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp biryani masala
• Fresh coriander & mint leaves (chopped)
• Saffron strands (optional, soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk)

Instructions:

Step 1: Marinate the Paneer

In a bowl, mix curd, spices, and salt. Add paneer cubes and gently mix. Let it marinate for 20–30 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

Wash and soak basmati rice for 20 minutes. Boil with whole spices and salt until 90% cooked. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Biryani Masala

Heat oil/ghee in a pan. Add cumin seeds, then sliced onions. Sauté till golden brown. Add tomatoes, green chili, and spices. Cook till oil separates.

Step 4: Add Marinated Paneer

Add the marinated paneer to the masala and cook on low flame for 5–7 minutes, gently stirring to keep the paneer intact.

Step 5: Layer the Biryani

In a heavy-bottom pan, layer half of the cooked rice over the paneer masala. Sprinkle mint, coriander, and saffron milk (if using). Repeat the layers.

Step 6: Dum Cooking

Cover tightly and cook on a low flame for 15 minutes. Turn off the heat and let it rest for 10 minutes.

Serve & Enjoy:

Fluff the biryani gently with a fork. Serve hot with raita or salan. Each bite bursts with flavors—spicy, fragrant, and oh-so-creamy!

Tip: For extra flavor, toss in fried onions (birista) while layering. Paneer Biryani is proof that vegetarian dishes can be just as indulgent and festive.