Golden Persian Pilaf with Nuts and Fruits
This Persian-inspired basmati rice pilaf is a delightful blend of aromatic spices, tender grains, and the warm flavors of nuts and dried fruits. A perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or a stand-alone vegetarian dish, its vibrant color comes from turmeric and optional saffron, lending a taste as rich as its appearance. Lightly sweetened by raisins and texturized by crunchy almonds, even a pinch of cayenne pepper can be added for those who love a little heat.
4
Servings
455
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
4 tablespoons (melted)
small onion
1 (chopped)
fresh garlic
2 tablespoons (minced, optional)
slivered almonds
1/2 cup (none)
basmati rice
1 1/2 cups (uncooked)
raisins
1/2-3/4 cup (none)
turmeric
2 teaspoons (none)
ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon (none)
salt
1 teaspoon (or to taste)
low sodium chicken broth
3 cups (none)
black pepper
to taste (ground)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and slivered almonds, cooking until the onions are soft and the almonds are golden brown, about 6-7 minutes. If using, add the minced garlic in the last 2-3 minutes of sautéing, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
2
Add the uncooked basmati rice to the skillet, stirring well to coat each grain with butter. Then mix in the raisins, turmeric, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the low sodium chicken broth, stirring to combine all ingredients.
3
Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, then immediately cover with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to a low simmer. Let it cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
4
Remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and rice to gently finish cooking.
5
Before serving, fluff the rice gently with a fork and season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful creation.
Nutrition Information
19.25g
Fat
57.5g
Carbs
8.75g
Protein
2g
Fiber
16.5g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Golden Persian Pilaf with Nuts and Fruits?
It is a Persian-inspired basmati rice dish featuring aromatic spices like turmeric and cinnamon, combined with crunchy almonds and sweet raisins.
What type of rice is best for this recipe?
Basmati rice is the recommended grain for this pilaf to achieve the proper texture and aroma.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Yes, it can be a stand-alone vegetarian dish if you substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 455 calories.
What gives the rice its golden color?
The vibrant golden color comes from the addition of turmeric and optional saffron.
How much butter is used in the preparation?
The recipe calls for 4 tablespoons of melted butter.
What kind of nuts are included in this pilaf?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of slivered almonds.
Which dried fruit is used in this recipe?
The recipe includes 1/2 to 3/4 cup of raisins for a light sweetness.
How much turmeric is needed?
You will need 2 teaspoons of turmeric.
What is the amount of cinnamon required?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
How much chicken broth should I use?
You should use 3 cups of low sodium chicken broth.
How long should I sauté the onions and almonds?
Sauté them for about 6-7 minutes until the onions are soft and the almonds are golden brown.
When should the garlic be added?
If using garlic, add the minced cloves in the last 2-3 minutes of sautéing to avoid burning.
What is the recommended cooking time for the rice?
The rice should simmer for 20-25 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the grains are tender.
Why do I need to let the rice sit for 5 minutes after cooking?
Letting it sit covered allows the flavors to meld and the rice to finish cooking gently.
How do you prepare the rice for serving?
Gently fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Can I add spicy heat to this dish?
Yes, a pinch of cayenne pepper can be added if you prefer a little heat.
What is the fat content per serving?
There is 19.25g of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in each serving?
Each serving contains 57.5g of carbohydrates.
What is the protein content of this pilaf?
The dish provides 8.75g of protein per serving.
How much sugar does this recipe contain?
There are 16.5g of sugar per serving, primarily from the raisins.
Is there fiber in this recipe?
Yes, each serving provides 2g of fiber.
What is the preparation for the onion?
The recipe requires one small onion to be chopped.
Should the basmati rice be cooked before adding it to the skillet?
No, the 1 1/2 cups of basmati rice should be uncooked when added to the skillet.
Is the garlic mandatory in this recipe?
No, the 2 tablespoons of minced fresh garlic are optional.
What is the suggested amount of salt?
Use 1 teaspoon of salt, or adjust according to your taste.
What heat level should I use for simmering?
Once the mixture boils, reduce the heat to a low simmer and cover with a tight-fitting lid.
What are the primary flavor notes of this dish?
The dish is aromatic and warm, featuring savory spices, crunchy nuts, and sweet fruit.
What are the best side dish pairings for this pilaf?
It is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or can be served as a vegetarian main dish.