Pomegranate-Infused Almond Basmati Rice
Elevate your traditional rice dish with this vibrant Pomegranate-Infused Almond Basmati Rice. This delightful recipe combines the nutty richness of buttered basmati rice with the sweetness and tang of fresh pomegranate seeds, and the satisfying crunch of sliced almonds. Perfectly paired with spicy curries, this dish not only enhances the flavor but also adds a burst of color to your table. The juicy pomegranate seeds will surprise your palate, making each bite an exciting experience. Easy to whip up, it's an excellent choice for family dinners or entertaining guests.
N/A
Servings
200
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter
2 ounces (melted)
Basmati Rice
2 cups (uncooked)
Water
5 cups (none)
Chicken Stock Cube
1 (crumbled)
Salt
1 teaspoon (none)
Sliced Almonds
1/4 cup (toasted (optional))
Pomegranate
1 (seeds removed)
Instructions
1
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the basmati rice and gently stir to ensure each grain is coated with the melted butter, taking care not to fry the rice.
2
Pour in the 5 cups of water, add the chicken stock cube, and sprinkle in the salt. Stir gently to dissolve the stock cube, then bring the mixture to a boil.
3
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot tightly with a lid. Allow the rice to simmer for about 10 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed.
4
After 10 minutes, remove the pot from heat but keep it covered. Let the rice sit for an additional 10 minutes to steam.
5
While the rice is resting, carefully cut the pomegranate in half and remove the seeds, discarding any white pith.
6
Fluff the cooked rice gently with a fork, then fold in the toasted sliced almonds and fresh pomegranate seeds. Serve warm as a delightful side dish.
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
25g
Carbs
3.75g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pomegranate-Infused Almond Basmati Rice?
It is a vibrant side dish that combines buttery basmati rice with toasted sliced almonds and fresh, juicy pomegranate seeds for a mix of nutty, sweet, and tangy flavors.
What type of rice is recommended for this recipe?
Basmati rice is the preferred choice for its long grains and aromatic profile which complements the other ingredients perfectly.
How much butter is required for the rice?
The recipe calls for 2 ounces of melted butter to coat the rice grains before cooking.
Is this recipe considered vegetarian?
While the tags mention vegetarian, the recipe includes a chicken stock cube. To make it strictly vegetarian, you should substitute the chicken stock with a vegetable stock cube.
What is the purpose of stirring the rice in butter before adding water?
Stirring the rice in butter ensures each grain is coated, which helps prevent the rice from sticking and adds a rich, nutty flavor.
How many cups of water are needed for 2 cups of rice?
This recipe uses 5 cups of water for 2 cups of uncooked basmati rice.
How long does the rice need to simmer?
The rice should simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed.
Why do I need to let the rice sit for 10 minutes after cooking?
Letting the rice rest while covered allows it to steam properly, resulting in a fluffier texture and ensuring the grains are fully cooked.
How do I prepare the pomegranate?
Cut the pomegranate in half and remove the seeds, being careful to discard any of the bitter white pith.
Are the almonds used raw or toasted?
The recipe recommends using toasted sliced almonds for a better crunch and enhanced nutty flavor.
Can I use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock?
Yes, substituting the chicken stock cube with a vegetable stock cube is an easy way to make the dish vegetarian-friendly.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving of this rice dish contains approximately 200 calories.
What is the fat content of this recipe?
There are approximately 10 grams of fat per serving, coming from the butter and the almonds.
How much protein does this dish provide?
Each serving provides about 3.75 grams of protein.
What are the carbohydrate levels in this rice dish?
The dish contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I make this in a rice cooker?
Yes, you can sauté the rice in butter in a pan first, then transfer it to a rice cooker with the water and stock cube to finish cooking.
When should the pomegranate seeds and almonds be added?
They should be gently folded into the rice after it has been fluffed with a fork, just before serving.
What dishes pair well with this rice?
This dish is perfectly paired with spicy curries, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables.
Can I add fresh herbs to this recipe?
Yes, adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro at the end would complement the pomegranate and almond flavors well.
Is this recipe easy to follow for beginners?
Yes, it is classified as an easy recipe with simple steps and straightforward ingredients.
Should I wash the basmati rice before use?
While not explicitly required in the instructions, rinsing basmati rice until the water runs clear helps remove excess starch for a less sticky result.
Can I substitute the almonds with other nuts?
Yes, pistachios or pine nuts would work very well as substitutes for sliced almonds.
Is the pomegranate essential to the flavor?
The pomegranate provides the 'infused' sweet and tangy bursts of flavor that define the dish, though the rice remains tasty even without it.
How many ingredients are required in total?
There are 7 ingredients: butter, basmati rice, water, chicken stock cube, salt, sliced almonds, and a pomegranate.
Can I reduce the amount of salt?
Yes, you can adjust the salt to your preference, especially since the chicken stock cube already contains sodium.
What is the texture of the final dish?
The dish has a combination of soft, fluffy rice grains, crunchy almonds, and juicy, popping pomegranate seeds.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, though the pomegranate seeds may lose some crunch when reheated.
What does the chicken stock cube add to the dish?
The stock cube provides a savory, umami base that seasons the rice grains from the inside out as they cook.
Can I use brown rice for this recipe?
You can, but brown rice requires more water and a significantly longer cooking time (usually 40-50 minutes) than basmati rice.
Should this be served hot or cold?
This dish is best served warm as a side dish to enjoy the contrast between the hot rice and the fresh pomegranate seeds.