Savory Nut & Raisin Brown Rice Pilaf
Discover a delightful blend of flavors with this Savory Nut & Raisin Brown Rice Pilaf. The earthy notes of toasted pine nuts harmonize perfectly with the sweetness of raisins, creating a dish that is not only satisfying but also nutritious. This recipe, adapted from a cherished favorite in Canadian Living, will make brown rice your new go-to staple. The subtle hint of cinnamon elevates the overall experience, adding warmth without overwhelming the dish. Perfect as a side, a main course, or even enjoyed as leftovers, this pilaf encourages you to experiment with different types of brown rice for varied textures and tastes.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
Vegetable oil
1 teaspoon (none)
Onion
1 (chopped)
Garlic cloves
2 (minced)
Dried thyme
1 teaspoon (none)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Cinnamon
1 pinch (none)
Long grain brown rice
1 cup (none)
Chicken or vegetable stock
2 cups (none)
Dried currants or raisins
1/3 cup (none)
Lemon rind
1 teaspoon (grated)
Pine nuts
1/4 cup (toasted)
Green onions
2 (sliced)
Instructions
1
In a heavy saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 5 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
2
Stir in the dried thyme, salt, pepper, and just a pinch of cinnamon, ensuring that the cinnamon doesn't dominate the flavors. Continue stirring the mixture for another minute.
3
Add the long grain brown rice to the saucepan, mixing it in well and cooking for 1 more minute, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors.
4
Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, then add the dried currants (or raisins) along with the grated lemon rind. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
6
After cooking, remove the saucepan from heat and let it stand, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7
Finally, fluff the rice with a fork and sprinkle the toasted pine nuts and sliced green onions on top before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Nut & Raisin Brown Rice Pilaf?
It is a nutritious dish featuring long grain brown rice, toasted pine nuts, and raisins, adapted from a Canadian Living favorite.
What are the primary ingredients?
The main ingredients include long grain brown rice, onion, garlic, vegetable oil, stock, pine nuts, and raisins or currants.
How long does the cooking process take?
The rice needs to simmer for 50 to 60 minutes, followed by 5 minutes of standing time.
Can I use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock?
Yes, the recipe allows for either chicken or vegetable stock depending on your preference.
What kind of rice is recommended?
The recipe specifically calls for long grain brown rice, though you can experiment with other brown rice varieties.
How do I prepare the onion and garlic?
The onion should be chopped and the garlic should be minced before being sautéed for about 5 minutes.
What spices are used in this recipe?
The pilaf is seasoned with dried thyme, salt, pepper, and a pinch of cinnamon.
Is the cinnamon flavor very strong?
No, the recipe suggests using just a pinch so that it adds warmth without dominating the other flavors.
When do I add the rice to the pan?
Add the rice after the onion, garlic, and spices have been cooked and stirred for about a minute.
How much stock is needed for 1 cup of rice?
You will need 2 cups of chicken or vegetable stock for every 1 cup of long grain brown rice.
What dried fruits can be used?
You can use 1/3 cup of either dried currants or raisins.
What is the purpose of the lemon rind?
The grated lemon rind is added to the stock to provide a bright, citrusy note that balances the earthy flavors.
How do I know when the rice is finished cooking?
The rice is ready when it is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed by the grain.
Why should the rice stand after cooking?
Allowing it to stand covered for 5 minutes lets the flavors meld and ensures the texture is perfect.
How do I serve the pilaf?
Fluff the rice with a fork and top it with toasted pine nuts and sliced green onions.
What toppings are added at the end?
The dish is finished with a sprinkle of 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts and 2 sliced green onions.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, as long as you use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, the dish is vegetarian-friendly.
Can this be a main dish?
Absolutely, it is versatile enough to be served as a side, a main course, or a light lunch.
Where did this recipe originate?
This recipe is adapted from a version found in Canadian Living.
How should I toast the pine nuts?
While the recipe doesn't specify the method, pine nuts can be toasted in a dry pan over medium heat until golden.
Can I use different types of brown rice?
Yes, the description encourages experimenting with different brown rice types for varied textures.
What is the texture of this dish like?
It offers a mix of textures: fluffy rice, crunchy toasted pine nuts, and soft, sweet raisins.
How many garlic cloves are in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 minced garlic cloves.
What type of oil should I use?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil for sautéing.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it uses whole grain brown rice, healthy nuts, and is tagged as a healthy side dish.
Can I save the leftovers?
Yes, the recipe is noted as being enjoyable even when eaten as leftovers.
How much thyme is required?
You should use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.
How many green onions should I prepare?
Prepare 2 green onions by slicing them for the final garnish.
What heat setting is used for simmering?
After bringing the mixture to a boil, you should reduce the heat to low for simmering.
Do I need a specific type of pot?
A heavy saucepan is recommended to ensure even cooking and heat retention.