Colorful Saudi Carrot Basmati Rice with Pine Nuts
Savor the vibrant flavors of the Middle East with this exquisite Saudi Carrot Basmati Rice, inspired by Zainab's mom's cherished recipe. Each fluffy grain of basmati rice is infused with aromatic kabsa spices, complemented by the crunch of roasted pine nuts and the sweetness of freshly shredded carrots. This dish not only delights the palate but also offers a stunning presentation, making it the perfect accompaniment to a succulent whole roasted chicken and a crisp, refreshing salad. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a meal that brings warmth, color, and authenticity to your dinner table.
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
basmati rice
1 1/2 cups (washed and soaked)
carrot
1 medium (shredded)
kabsa spice mix
1/2 teaspoon (as is)
fresh ground black pepper
to taste (as is)
salt
to taste (as is)
chicken stock
2 3/4 cups (as is)
pine nuts
1/4 cup (toasted)
Instructions
1
Begin by washing the basmati rice in a fine sieve until the water runs clear, ensuring any excess starch is removed for perfect fluffiness.
2
Soak the rice in a pot of cold water for at least 15 minutes. This step helps in achieving the desired texture when cooking.
3
In a small dry frying pan, toast the pine nuts over medium heat until they turn golden brown. Stir frequently to prevent burning, then set aside.
4
After soaking, drain the rice and transfer it to a large heavy-bottomed pot. Add shredded carrots, kabsa spice mix, freshly ground black pepper, salt to taste, and chicken stock.
5
Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 13 to 18 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time.
6
Once the cooking time is up, remove the pot from the heat without uncovering it. Fluff the rice gently with a fork while keeping it on the warm burner.
7
To ensure maximum fluffiness, take three paper towel halves and place them around the rim of the pot, then cover it tightly again with the lid.
8
Save the fourth paper towel for any spills. Let the rice sit undisturbed for 20 minutes. The steam trapped inside will help the rice to become even fluffier.
9
Finally, fluff the rice one last time before serving, and sprinkle the toasted pine nuts on top for an added crunch and flavor.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Colorful Saudi Carrot Basmati Rice with Pine Nuts?
It is a vibrant Middle Eastern rice dish featuring fluffy basmati rice, aromatic kabsa spices, shredded carrots, and toasted pine nuts.
What is the origin of this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by the cherished traditional cooking of Zainab's mother.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is portioned to serve 2 people.
What type of rice is required?
The recipe calls specifically for 1 1/2 cups of basmati rice.
Why must the basmati rice be washed?
Washing the rice until the water runs clear removes excess starch, which ensures the final dish is perfectly fluffy and not sticky.
How long should the rice be soaked before cooking?
The rice should be soaked in cold water for at least 15 minutes to achieve the best texture.
How do I toast the pine nuts?
Toast them in a small dry frying pan over medium heat, stirring frequently until they are golden brown.
What spices are used in this Saudi rice recipe?
The dish is seasoned with kabsa spice mix, freshly ground black pepper, and salt.
How many carrots are needed?
You will need one medium-sized shredded carrot.
What kind of stock is used for cooking the rice?
The recipe uses 2 3/4 cups of chicken stock.
Is this dish spicy?
The recipe is tagged as spicy, primarily due to the inclusion of kabsa spices and black pepper.
How long does the rice need to simmer?
The rice should simmer on low heat for between 13 and 18 minutes.
Can I lift the lid while the rice is simmering?
No, you should keep the pot covered and not lift the lid during the simmering process to trap the steam.
What is the 'paper towel trick' mentioned?
After cooking, place three paper towel halves around the rim of the pot before replacing the lid to absorb excess moisture and maximize fluffiness.
How long should the rice rest after cooking?
The rice should sit undisturbed for 20 minutes once the heat is turned off.
What can I serve with this rice?
It is recommended to serve this dish with a whole roasted chicken and a fresh salad.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
While tagged as vegetarian, the recipe uses chicken stock; you should substitute it with vegetable stock to make it strictly vegetarian.
What is the purpose of adding shredded carrots?
The carrots provide a natural sweetness and contribute to the vibrant color and presentation of the dish.
When should I add the pine nuts?
The toasted pine nuts should be sprinkled on top of the rice just before serving.
What type of pot is best for this recipe?
A large heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for even heat distribution.
How do I fluff the rice without breaking the grains?
Gently fluff the rice using a fork after the initial cooking time is complete.
Can I use water instead of chicken stock?
You can use water, but chicken stock provides much more depth and authentic flavor to the rice.
What does kabsa spice mix contain?
Kabsa mix usually contains a blend of black lime, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and other aromatic spices.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
The recipe contains 7 main ingredients including the garnish.
Can I make this for a celebration?
Yes, it is specifically tagged as a celebration dish and a comfort food.
How do I know when the pine nuts are done?
They are done when they turn a uniform golden brown and become fragrant.
Is this a difficult recipe to follow?
No, it is categorized as an 'easy recipe' suitable for various skill levels.
What is the ratio of rice to liquid in this recipe?
The ratio is 1 1/2 cups of rice to 2 3/4 cups of stock.
How do I prepare the carrots?
The carrot should be freshly shredded before being added to the pot with the rice and spices.
What makes the rice so fluffy in this recipe?
The combination of washing, soaking, precise simmering, and the 20-minute resting period with paper towels ensures maximum fluffiness.