Elevate your mealtime with this Sugar-Free Fragrant Spiced Rice, a dish that combines aromatic spices and herbs for an unforgettable flavor experience without any added sugar. Perfectly fluffy basmati rice is infused with the warmth of cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and cumin, complemented by caramelized onions and a touch of earthy coconut oil. Fresh cilantro and mint bring a refreshing finish to this comforting, yet lively recipe. With just 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, this healthy, gluten-free side dish pairs beautifully with your favorite curries, grilled proteins, or as a standalone vegan delight. Ideal for dinner parties or weeknight meals, this spiced rice recipe is a showcase of simplicity, flavor, and nutrition.
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevent the rice from becoming sticky when cooked.
In a medium-sized pot over medium heat, melt the coconut oil. Add the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, bay leaf, and cumin seeds. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the spices become fragrant.
Add the sliced onion to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the basmati rice, ensuring that the rice is well-coated with the oil and spice mixture. Sauté the rice for another 2 minutes, allowing it to toast lightly.
Add the water and salt to the pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and water is absorbed.
Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the rice to finish steaming and ensures a fluffy texture.
Gently fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in the chopped cilantro and mint leaves.
Serve the fragrant spiced rice warm, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Calories |
707 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 30.9 g | 40% | |
| Saturated Fat | 23.8 g | 119% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2419 mg | 105% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 96.8 g | 35% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.4 g | 30% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.3 g | ||
| Protein | 13.3 g | 27% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 228 mg | 18% | |
| Iron | 8.5 mg | 47% | |
| Potassium | 442 mg | 9% | |
*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.