Spicy Peach Pilaf
Elevate your rice game with this vibrant and flavor-packed Spicy Peach Pilaf, a unique fusion of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors that transforms humble basmati rice into a culinary masterpiece. Juicy peaches, whether fresh or canned, add a delightful sweetness that perfectly balances the heat from red chili flakes and the warmth of aromatic spices like cumin and cinnamon. Tender onions, fragrant garlic, and a splash of vegetable broth create a rich, savory base, while a garnish of toasted almonds and fresh cilantro adds irresistible texture and a burst of freshness. Ready in just 40 minutes, this versatile dish can be served as a stunning side or a satisfying vegetarian main course. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, Spicy Peach Pilaf is your go-to recipe for adding a touch of exotic flair to any meal!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups basmati rice
- 3 cups water
- 2 whole peaches (fresh or canned)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 whole garlic cloves, minced
- 0.5 teaspoons red chili flakes
- 0.5 teaspoons ground cumin
- 0.25 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 0.25 cups almonds, slivered and toasted
- 0.5 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps ensure fluffy rice.
In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Cover, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is fully absorbed. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
While the rice cooks, peel and pit the peaches if using fresh, and slice them into bite-sized pieces. If using canned peaches, drain and chop them into similar-sized pieces.
In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add the minced garlic, red chili flakes, ground cumin, and ground cinnamon to the skillet. Cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the peaches and cook for 3-4 minutes to allow them to soften slightly and soak in the flavors of the spices.
Pour the vegetable broth into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the cooked rice to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the rice is evenly coated in the spiced peach mixture. Season with the remaining salt, if needed.
Sprinkle the chopped cilantro and toasted almonds over the top. Mix gently to combine, or leave as garnish.
Serve the Spicy Peach Pilaf warm as a side dish or a light main course. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1082 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 54.0 g | 69% | |
| Saturated Fat | 16.5 g | 82% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 66 mg | 22% | |
| Sodium | 2829 mg | 123% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 132.5 g | 48% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.4 g | 44% | |
| Total Sugars | 33.8 g | ||
| Protein | 22.9 g | 46% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 236 mg | 18% | |
| Iron | 8.0 mg | 44% | |
| Potassium | 1324 mg | 28% | |
*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.
