Coconut Raisin Rice Pilaf
Infused with vibrant flavors and a touch of tropical indulgence, Coconut Raisin Rice Pilaf is a fragrant and wholesome side dish that’s sure to elevate your meal. This recipe combines fluffy basmati rice cooked in creamy coconut milk with sweet golden raisins, toasted shredded coconut, and aromatic spices like cardamom and cinnamon. Sautéed onions and garlic lend a savory depth, while a sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness. Perfect for pairing with curries, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables, this customizable pilaf is a balance of savory and sweet, offering a unique twist on traditional rice dishes. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's an easy yet impressive addition to your table that’s ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1.5 cups coconut milk
- 0.5 cup water
- 0.5 cup raisins
- 1 small (diced) yellow onion
- 2 cloves (minced) garlic
- 0.25 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 0.25 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons (chopped, for garnish) fresh cilantro
Instructions
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky. Set aside.
In a medium-sized pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic, ground cardamom, and ground cinnamon. Cook for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the spices to become fragrant.
Add the basmati rice to the pot and stir well to coat each grain with the spiced oil mixture.
Pour in the coconut milk, water, and salt. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes, remove the lid and gently stir in the raisins and shredded coconut. Replace the lid and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed.
Turn off the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together.
Fluff the rice with a fork and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1043 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 43.4 g | 56% | |
| Saturated Fat | 17.0 g | 85% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1281 mg | 56% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 160.2 g | 58% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.2 g | 36% | |
| Total Sugars | 82.1 g | ||
| Protein | 12.6 g | 25% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 144 mg | 11% | |
| Iron | 6.0 mg | 33% | |
| Potassium | 1282 mg | 27% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
