Transform your mealtime with this vibrant and heart-healthy Low Sodium Spiced Pilau Rice. Perfectly fluffy basmati rice is infused with the irresistible aroma of warming spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cumin, creating a fragrant and flavorful base. The golden hues of turmeric, paired with the zing of garlic and ginger, bring depth and warmth, while tender peas and fresh cilantro brighten the dish with color and freshness. Finished with a splash of zesty lemon juice, this easy-to-make recipe is a fantastic low-sodium alternative for anyone looking to enjoy the rich flavors of traditional Indian pilau. Ready in just 30 minutes, itβs ideal as a light, satisfying side or standalone dish for any occasion.
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Soak the rice in cold water for 20 minutes, then drain and set aside.
Heat the olive oil in a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat.
Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom pods, bay leaf, and cumin seeds. SautΓ© the spices for 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant.
Stir in the sliced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the onion turns golden and translucent.
Add the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Mix in the turmeric powder, and then add the drained rice to the pan. Stir gently to coat the rice in the spices and oil.
Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice cook undisturbed for 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
Fluff the rice gently with a fork and stir in the peas, fresh cilantro, and lemon juice.
Serve warm and enjoy this aromatic, low sodium spiced pilau rice!
Calories |
590 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 24.2 g | 31% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.9 g | 20% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 55 mg | 2% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 83.0 g | 30% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.7 g | 42% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.3 g | ||
| Protein | 14.1 g | 28% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 216 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 8.6 mg | 48% | |
| Potassium | 596 mg | 13% | |
*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.