Moroccan Spiced Rice Pilaf
This Moroccan Spiced Rice Pilaf is a delightful and aromatic dish that beautifully combines the warm spices and flavors of North Africa. Infused with ground cumin, turmeric, and cinnamon, and complemented by crunchy nuts and sweet raisins, this dish provides a tantalizing balance of textures and tastes. Perfect as a standalone main or as a side dish to complement char-grilled lamb cutlets, chicken, or roasted vegetables, this pilaf is a versatile and satisfying meal ideal for any occasion.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
15
Ingredients
Ingredients
basmati rice
200 g (rinsed under cold water until water runs clear)
chicken stock
500-750 ml
olive oil
2 tablespoons
yellow onion
1 (halved and finely chopped)
slivered almonds
65 g
pine nuts
80 g (chopped)
ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon
ground turmeric
1/4 teaspoon
ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon
chili powder
1 pinch ((adjust to your taste))
raisins
65 g
orange
1 (rind cut into very thin strips, juiced)
fresh coriander
1/3 cup (loosely packed coarsely chopped)
salt
to taste
fresh ground pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
2
In a microwave-safe rice cooker or bowl, place the rinsed rice. Add enough chicken stock to cover the rice by approximately 2 cm.
3
Cover with a lid or a double layer of plastic wrap. Cook on High/800 watts in the microwave for 5 minutes. Then, cook on Medium/500 watts for an additional 7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
4
Meanwhile, in another microwave-safe bowl, combine the olive oil, chopped onion, slivered almonds, pine nuts, ground cumin, ground turmeric, ground cinnamon, and chili powder. Stir well.
5
Cook this mixture uncovered in the microwave on High for 3-4 minutes, stirring every minute, until the nuts are toasted and the aroma is fragrant.
6
Add the raisins, orange rind, and orange juice to the nut mixture. Microwave on High for 1 more minute.
7
Gently combine the nut mixture with the cooked rice. Add the chopped coriander and gently mix to integrate all ingredients.
8
Taste the pilaf and season with salt and freshly ground pepper according to your preference.
9
Serve warm, ideally with a main of your choice such as char-grilled lamb cutlets.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Moroccan Spiced Rice Pilaf?
Moroccan Spiced Rice Pilaf is an aromatic North African dish featuring basmati rice, warm spices like cumin and cinnamon, crunchy nuts, and sweet raisins.
What type of rice is used in this recipe?
This recipe specifically uses basmati rice, which is known for its long grains and fragrant aroma.
How long does it take to cook the rice in the microwave?
The rice is cooked on High for 5 minutes and then on Medium for an additional 7 minutes.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian or vegan by substituting the chicken stock with vegetable stock.
What spices give this pilaf its Moroccan flavor?
The signature flavor comes from a blend of ground cumin, ground turmeric, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of chili powder.
Are there nuts in this Moroccan rice?
Yes, the recipe includes slivered almonds and pine nuts for a toasted, crunchy texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this rice pilaf is naturally gluten-free, provided that the chicken stock used is certified gluten-free.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What provides the sweetness in this dish?
The sweetness comes from the addition of raisins and fresh orange juice.
How do I prepare the orange for this recipe?
You should cut the orange rind into very thin strips and also use the juice from the orange.
Why do I need to rinse the rice?
Rinsing the rice under cold water until it runs clear removes excess starch, which helps keep the grains separate and fluffy.
What is the purpose of the turmeric?
Turmeric adds a warm, earthy flavor and gives the rice a beautiful golden yellow color.
Can I substitute the raisins?
Yes, you can substitute raisins with other dried fruits like chopped dried apricots or cranberries if preferred.
What should I serve with this pilaf?
It pairs perfectly with char-grilled lamb cutlets, roasted chicken, or even a variety of roasted vegetables.
How do I toast the nuts for this recipe?
The nuts are toasted in the microwave with olive oil, onion, and spices for 3-4 minutes, stirring every minute.
Can I use a different type of onion?
While the recipe calls for a yellow onion, you could use a white onion or a shallot for a milder flavor.
Is the dish spicy?
The dish is aromatic and warm rather than hot; it only contains a pinch of chili powder which can be adjusted to your taste.
How much chicken stock is required?
You will need between 500 ml and 750 ml of chicken stock, enough to cover the rice by about 2 cm.
Can I add fresh herbs?
Yes, the recipe includes 1/3 cup of coarsely chopped fresh coriander to add a burst of freshness at the end.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pilaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can this be served cold?
While best served warm, it can also be enjoyed as a cold rice salad the next day.
What can I use instead of pine nuts?
If you don't have pine nuts, you can use extra almonds, chopped walnuts, or even sunflower seeds.
Is this a good holiday recipe?
Yes, its vibrant colors and rich flavors make it an excellent side dish for holiday gatherings.
Can I make this nut-free?
To make it nut-free, simply omit the almonds and pine nuts; you can add toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch instead.
What is the best way to reheat the rice?
Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water or stock to keep the rice from drying out.
Can I use brown rice instead of basmati?
You can, but brown rice requires significantly more liquid and a longer cooking time than the microwave instructions provided here.
How do I know the rice is done?
The rice is done when all the liquid is absorbed and the grains are tender and fluffy.
Does the recipe use oil or butter?
This recipe uses 2 tablespoons of olive oil to sauté the onions and toast the spices and nuts.
Can I add meat to the pilaf?
Yes, you can stir in cooked shredded chicken or browned ground lamb to turn it into a complete one-pot meal.
How finely should the onion be chopped?
The onion should be halved and finely chopped so it blends well with the rice and spices.