Bhogi Special Biryani — A Warm, Allergen-Free Harvest Festival Dish

Bhogi Special Biryani is a comforting, allergen-free vegetarian rice dish inspired by the traditional Bhogi thali. This Bhogi festival biryani recipe combines moong dal, winter vegetables, and aromatic spices for a nourishing festive meal.

 

February 10, 2026

Bhogi is a harvest festival that celebrates warmth, simplicity, and seasonal abundance. Bhogi Special Biryani draws inspiration from the rustic flavors of Bhogi Bhaji and the comforting wholesomeness of moong dal khichadi, transforming them into a layered and aromatic biryani.

Unlike rich or heavy biryanis, Bhogi Special Biryani focuses on balance and nourishment. Mild spices, winter vegetables, and a touch of jaggery create a dish that feels festive yet light on the stomach. This Bhogi festival biryani recipe honors tradition while offering a comforting, home-style experience.

What makes this dish truly inclusive is that it is an allergen-free vegetarian biryani. Free from wheat, dairy, nuts, soy, and other major allergens, it allows everyone at the table to enjoy a traditional festival meal without worry.

 

Bhogi Special Biryani — A Warm, Allergen-Free Harvest Festival Dish

Serving

4 - 5

Prep Time

15 min

Cook Time

35 min

Total Time

50 min

Free From :
  • Wheat-Free
  • Peanut-Free
  • Tree Nut-Free
  • Dairy-Free
  • Egg-Free
  • Soy-Free
  • Sesame-Free
  • Fish-Free
  • Shellfish-Free
Ingredients
  • Basmati rice – 1 cup
  • Moong dal – ½ cup
  • Eggplant – 2–3, chopped
  • Carrot – 1, chopped
  • Flat beans – ½ cup, chopped
  • Green chana – ½ cup
  • Green peas – ½ cup
  • Onion – 1, finely chopped
  • Tomato – 1, finely chopped
  • Turmeric powder – ½ tsp + 1 tsp
  • Red chili powder – 1 tsp
  • Goda masala – 1 tbsp
  • Jaggery – 1 tsp
  • Vegetable oil – ½ tsp + 1 tbsp
  • Mustard seeds (Mohri) – 1 tsp
  • Cumin seeds – 1 tsp
  • Hing (asafoetida) – ½ tsp
  • Salt – to taste
  • Water – as needed
Method
  • Start by preparing the rice and moong dal layer. Bring 2–3 cups of water to a boil with salt, ½ tsp oil, and ½ tsp turmeric powder. Add washed rice and moong dal. Cook until the rice is about ¾ done. Drain and keep aside.
  • Heat a heavy-bottom pot on medium flame. Add 1 tbsp oil. Once hot, add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and hing. Let them splutter.
  • Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add tomato and salt, cooking until the tomatoes turn soft and mushy.
  • Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and goda masala. Mix well.
  • Add all the vegetables along with jaggery. Mix gently. Add about ½ cup water, cover, and cook until vegetables are ¾ cooked.
  • Layer the cooked rice and moong dal evenly over the vegetable mixture, just like a biryani. Do not mix.
  • Cover and simmer on low heat for 25–30 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
  • Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Recipe Notes:
  • Cook rice and dal only until ¾ done to avoid a mushy texture.
  • Use seasonal winter vegetables for authentic Bhogi flavor.
  • Do not stir after layering; slow steaming enhances aroma.
  • Adjust spice levels to keep the dish mild and comforting.
  • This allergen-free vegetarian biryani tastes even better after resting for 10 minutes. 

Conclusion:

Bhogi Special Biryani is a soulful celebration of harvest flavors and simple cooking. This Bhogi festival biryani recipe brings together moong dal, winter vegetables, and gentle spices to create a dish that is nourishing, comforting, and inclusive. As an allergen-free vegetarian biryani, it fits perfectly into festive meals as well as everyday family cooking.

FAQ

  • Bhogi Special Biryani is made using basmati rice, moong dal, winter vegetables, and mild aromatic spices

  • Yes, it is light, nourishing, and made with lentils and vegetables.

  • Absolutely. It is free from wheat, dairy, nuts, soy, and eggs.

  • Yes, it can be prepared a few hours ahead and reheated gently.

  • It pairs well with cucumber salad, plant-based raita, or can be enjoyed on its own.

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ABOUT AUTHOR

Hi! I’m Nimisha C..

My tryst with cooking began when we got to know about food allergies for our son. Taken aback with the shock and restrictions that his diet had and also worried about nutrition...

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