Savory Curried Rice Pilaf with Almonds and Raisins
Enjoy a delightful medley of flavors and textures in this Savory Curried Rice Pilaf. The dish features tender long grain rice sautéed with fragrant garlic and green onions, enhanced by a warm touch of curry powder. Golden raisins provide a sweet contrast while toasted almonds deliver satisfying crunch. Perfect as a side or a main dish, this pilaf is not only visually appealing but also a comforting addition to any meal, appealing to diverse palates. --Lee Bremson, Kansas City, Missouri. Inspired by Taste of Home Magazine.
4
Servings
150
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Chopped green onion
1/2 cup (divided)
Garlic cloves
2 (minced)
Butter or margarine
1/4 cup (softened)
Uncooked long grain rice
1 1/2 cups
Curry powder
1/2 teaspoon
Chicken broth
3 cups (heated)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon
Golden raisins
1/2 cup
Chopped almonds
1/2 cup (toasted)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup of chopped green onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are tender and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
2
Stir in the uncooked long grain rice and curry powder to the skillet. Continue sautéing for 2-3 minutes, ensuring that the rice is evenly coated and lightly browned.
3
In a separate saucepan, heat the chicken broth and salt until simmering. Carefully pour the hot broth over the sautéed rice mixture, stirring to combine all ingredients.
4
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the broth.
5
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Gently fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the golden raisins, chopped toasted almonds, and the remaining 1/4 cup of green onions. Serve warm as a comforting side or main dish.
Nutrition Information
7.5g
Fat
18.75g
Carbs
3g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Curried Rice Pilaf?
It is a flavorful dish featuring long grain rice sautéed with garlic, green onions, and curry powder, then simmered in chicken broth and finished with golden raisins and toasted almonds.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
What type of rice should I use for this pilaf?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups of uncooked long grain rice for the best results.
How long does it take to cook the rice?
After sautéing, the rice needs to simmer on low heat for 35-40 minutes until tender.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can make it vegetarian by substituting the chicken broth with an equal amount of vegetable broth.
What kind of nuts are used in this dish?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of chopped toasted almonds to add a satisfying crunch.
Can I use regular raisins instead of golden raisins?
Yes, regular raisins can be used, though golden raisins provide a specific sweet contrast and visual appeal.
How much butter is required for the sautéing?
You will need 1/4 cup of butter or margarine to sauté the aromatics and the rice.
What are the calories per serving for this rice pilaf?
Each serving contains approximately 150 calories.
Can I add protein to make this a full meal?
Absolutely; adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can turn this side dish into a hearty main course.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe is gluten-free as long as you ensure your chicken broth and curry powder are certified gluten-free.
How do I store any leftover pilaf?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days.
Can this rice pilaf be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months; thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
What flavor does the curry powder add?
The curry powder adds a warm, aromatic touch and a beautiful golden color to the rice.
Why do I need to sauté the rice before simmering?
Sautéing the rice lightly browns it and helps ensure the grains remain separate and fluffy after cooking.
Can I substitute brown rice for long grain rice?
You can, but brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time than the 35-40 minutes specified.
What aromatics are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses a combination of minced garlic and chopped green onions.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, the recipe suggests using either butter or margarine depending on your preference.
How much liquid is needed for the rice?
The recipe requires 3 cups of chicken broth for 1 1/2 cups of rice.
How should I fluff the rice?
Use a fork to gently lift and separate the grains once the rice has absorbed all the liquid.
What is the texture of this dish?
The dish features tender rice with a mix of soft raisins and crunchy toasted almonds.
Can I use other dried fruits?
Yes, dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots would also work well as a substitute for raisins.
How much salt is included in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of salt added to the broth mixture.
Is this dish served warm or cold?
This pilaf is best served warm as a comforting side or main dish.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
While fresh garlic is recommended, you can substitute 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for the two cloves.
What if the rice is still tough after 40 minutes?
If the rice is still hard, add 2-3 tablespoons of hot water or broth and continue simmering, covered, for a few more minutes.
Can I prepare this in a rice cooker?
Yes, sauté the ingredients in a pan first, then transfer everything to your rice cooker and use the standard setting.
What should I serve with this rice pilaf?
It pairs well with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even as a base for a Mediterranean-style bowl.
Is the curry powder very spicy?
Standard curry powder is generally mild and adds warmth rather than intense heat.
Who is the source of this recipe?
This recipe was shared by Lee Bremson from Kansas City and inspired by Taste of Home Magazine.