Elevate your dinner table with this fragrant and flavorful Spiced Pilau Rice, a must-try side dish that perfectly complements curries, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables. This vibrant recipe combines the fluffiness of basmati rice with the warm, aromatic blend of cumin, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, creating an irresistible depth of flavor. Sautéed onions, garlic, and fresh ginger infuse richness, while turmeric and cayenne pepper add a beautiful golden hue and a touch of heat. Simmered in savory vegetable stock and finished with a garnish of fresh cilantro, this dish is as colorful as it is delicious. Ready in just 45 minutes, this easy yet elegant recipe is perfect for family meals or as the star of your next gathering.
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for about 20 minutes and drain.
Heat the cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaf. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the spices release their aroma.
Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Add the chopped tomato to the pot and cook until it softens, about 3-4 minutes.
Mix in the rinsed and drained rice, ensuring it is well-coated with the onion and spices mixture.
Pour in the vegetable stock, and season with salt, cayenne pepper, and turmeric powder. Stir thoroughly and bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly with a lid, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
Remove the pot from heat, let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Fluff the pilau rice with a fork, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, and serve hot.
Calories |
1050 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 36.2 g | 46% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.5 g | 28% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 5541 mg | 241% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 160.0 g | 58% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.3 g | 58% | |
| Total Sugars | 33.8 g | ||
| Protein | 27.6 g | 55% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 268 mg | 21% | |
| Iron | 12.1 mg | 67% | |
| Potassium | 2050 mg | 44% | |
*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.