Nhingi Biryani (butternut Biryani)

Nhingi Biryani, also known as Butternut Biryani, is a flavorful and aromatic rice dish that originates from Zimbabwe. This vegetarian biryani is made with butternut squash, fragrant spices, and long-grain basmati rice, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.

Vegetarian Vegan Main Course Zimbabwean Zimbabwean Cuisine Biryani Butternut Squash
Nhingi Biryani (butternut Biryani)

Ingredients

  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 2 cups diced butternut squash
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch ginger, grated
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 4 cardamom pods
  • 4 cloves
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil

Instructions

  1. Rinse the basmati rice until the water runs clear, then soak the rice in water for 30 minutes.
  2. In a large pot, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and cumin seeds. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add the sliced onion and cook until golden brown.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, then add the diced butternut squash and chopped tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes.
  5. Next, add the drained basmati rice to the pot and gently mix with the vegetables. Pour in the vegetable broth, plain yogurt, turmeric, and garam masala. Season with salt to taste.
  6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the biryani simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and the butternut squash is tender.
  7. Once done, fluff the biryani with a fork and serve hot.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
15 minutes
Cooking time:
40 minutes
Total time:
55 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
320 per serving
Carbohydrates
60g
Protein
6g
Fat
7g
Fiber
5g

Supplies

Large pot Cooking spoon Measuring cups and spoons Knife Cutting board

Tools

Stove

Serving suggestions

Nhingi Biryani pairs well with a side of raita (yogurt sauce) and a fresh salad.

Tips & tricks

For added flavor, you can garnish the biryani with fried onions, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Cost

$10