Trader Joe’s Vegetable Biryani is a frozen dish that aims to capture the authentic flavors of Indian cuisine in a quick, microwaveable meal. Priced at $2.99 for a 10-ounce box, this dish combines seasoned basmati rice, vegetable dumplings (referred to as kofta), and a medley of vegetables such as lima beans, peas, and carrots. Trader Joe's also adds in cashews and raisins for a touch of sweetness and texture. While it’s a convenient option for lunch or dinner, it may not meet everyone’s expectations when compared to traditional biryani.
Review: Taste and Texture
Flavor: The vegetable biryani delivers a strong curry flavor with a hint of sweetness from the raisins. The rice is well-seasoned, and the vegetable dumplings offer a chewy, savory bite. However, some may find the flavor too spicy for those unfamiliar with Indian cuisine. Also, I'm not wild about raisins in general so that was a miss for me. Overall, the dish has a nice balance of flavors but can feel one-dimensional at times.
Texture: While the rice is fluffy and well-cooked, the dumplings can be hit-or-miss. You might love the chewy texture or you might notice the dumlings can become soggy after microwaving. The overall texture varies between bites of well-seasoned rice, tender vegetables, and the occasional crunch from cashews, which keeps things interesting.
Overall: Of all the frozen Indian dishes this wasn't my personal favorite but is still pretty filling and decent tasting overall. The raisins were a miss for me.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Facts (per 1-cup serving):
Protein: 6g
Calories: 260
Total Fat: 8g
Sodium: 640mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Key Ingredients: Basmati rice, green peas, cabbage, lima beans, carrots, red bell peppers, vegetable dumplings, cashews, raisins, cilantro, and a blend of spices.
How to Prepare
Microwave Instructions:
- Remove the tray from the box and pierce the film.
- Microwave on high for 3–4 minutes.
- Stir and let sit for 1 minute before enjoying.
Oven Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Remove film and bake for 20–25 minutes for a more even, crisp texture on the dumplings.
Serving Suggestions
- With Raita: Pair the biryani with a cooling yogurt-based raita to counterbalance the heat and add a creamy element to the dish.
- With Naan: Enjoy alongside warm naan bread for a more filling meal, and use it to scoop up the rice.
- Add Extra Veggies: Amp up the nutritional value by mixing in some sautéed spinach or roasted cauliflower.
Pairing Suggestions
Beverages:
- Mango Lassi: The creamy, sweet lassi pairs well with the spiced rice, offering a cooling contrast.
- Chai Tea: A cup of masala chai enhances the spices in the biryani and complements the savory flavors.
Food Pairings:
- Paneer Tikka: Pair the biryani with Trader Joe’s Paneer Tikka for a more robust meal.
- Samosas: Add a side of crispy samosas to make it feel like a full Indian feast.
FAQs about Trader Joe's Vegetable Biryani
The following are commonly asked questions about this product:
Yes, this dish is vegan-friendly, though it's not labeled as such due to the use of sugar that may be processed with bone char.
The biryani has a noticeable curry spice, which can be moderate to medium depending on your spice tolerance.
Yes, though the rice and dumplings might lose some texture after being reheated a second time.
Final Thoughts
Trader Joe’s Vegetable Biryani offers a convenient and affordable way to enjoy Indian-inspired flavors at home. With its well-seasoned basmati rice, veggie dumplings, and a blend of spices, it's a satisfying option for those seeking a quick meal. However, the texture of the dumplings and the lack of sauce may leave some wanting more. Despite its shortcomings, the dish is a solid option for busy weeknights or work lunches, especially for vegans or vegetarians looking for a flavorful meal. Just be mindful of the portion size and spice level, as it may not suit everyone's palate.
Do you love these reviews?
Don't forget to share your thoughts by going to the "user review" at the bottom of the box (click on the number of stars you believe this product deserves) and leave a comment below.
You can also FOLLOW ME on the following platforms by clicking the icons below:
Trader Joe’s Vegetable Biryani
Product Name: Trader Joe’s Vegetable Biryani
Product Description: Trader Joe’s Vegetable Biryani offers a convenient, flavorful option with seasoned basmati rice, vegetables, and dumplings.
Price: $2.99
Summary
Trader Joe’s Vegetable Biryani offers a convenient, flavorful option with seasoned basmati rice, vegetables, and dumplings.
-
Taste
-
Value
-
Worthy of Repurchasing
Pros
- Convenient: Quick and easy to prepare, making it a great option for a work lunch or weeknight dinner.
- Vegan: A fully plant-based meal, appealing to vegetarians and vegans.
- Flavored Well: The curry seasoning and spices offer an authentic Indian-inspired taste.
Cons
- Texture Issues: Some find the dumplings soggy after microwaving.
- Missing a Sauce: The dish could benefit from a sauce to provide more moisture and tie the flavors together.
- Portion Size: While labeled as two servings, most find it more suited to a single serving.
Camille says
The calorie count is very high — this package serves 2, so it is 520 calories for just rice and a few veggies and some vegetarian dumplings. I love this, but after seeing how high it was in calories, I’ve stopped buying it.
becomebetty says
Hey Camille! Thanks for pointing that out. I believe the chicken tikka is much lower in calories if you are looking for a solid alternative. Thanks so much for stopping by!
Ed Auchincloss says
Just had half as directed. Too spicy for a non-Indian palate. Did not unearth a single dumpling. Added peas but didn't cut the spice. The makers need to do something (else) with this one. One to avoid.