If you have ever eaten at an Indian or Middle Eastern restaurant you may have seen a savory rice dish with fruits and nuts. It is very common and also very festive. Often, it’s served alongside meat dishes. The best thing about this rice pilaf is that kids love it. Growing up, this was our favorite. So mom made it often, and now it’s my kid’s favorite too. The sweetness of the raisins, apricots and smooth soft nuts just melt in your mouth with all those aromatic flavors of cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. For my kids, this is a meal on its own.
Step-by-step: Rice pilaf with fruit and nuts
Clean, rinse and soak rice in water for 30 mins. Drain and set aside.Pro tip – Soaking the rice will ensure even cooking and make it very fluffy rice.
In a skillet, heat oil and butter. Saute the whole spices for a minute. Then, add the nuts and fruits – saute for two minutes on low until lightly toasted. Then, add in the onions and saute until the onions are translucent. Followed by garlic and ginger. Next, add the rice and saute for about 2 to 3 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted. Add the stock or broth and bring it to a boil.
Cover the pan and reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cook on low for 20 minutes. After 20 mins, turn the heat off and keep covered for 10 minutes more.Pro tip – I like to use a timer to make sure I do not overcook the rice. Letting the rice rest for 10 minutes will ensure fluffy rice. Add the chopped cilantro and mint. Fluff the rice with a fork. Serve hot.
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