Sugar-Free Spiced Pilau Rice
Elevate your mealtime with this aromatic and wholesome Sugar-Free Spiced Pilau Rice, a delicious twist on the classic side dish that's perfect for those seeking a lighter, flavorful option. This vibrant recipe features tender basmati rice infused with warm, earthy spices like cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves, all brought together with a hint of golden turmeric. Cooked in coconut oil or ghee for a delicate richness, it boasts a naturally sugar-free profile that fits seamlessly into a variety of diets. Optional frozen green peas add a pop of color and sweetness, while fresh cilantro serves as the perfect garnish to brighten the dish. Ready in just 35 minutes, this versatile pilau rice is an ideal accompaniment to curries, kebabs, or even grilled veggies, making it a must-try addition to your recipe repertoire.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Basmati rice
- 2 cups Water
- 1 tablespoon Coconut oil or ghee
- 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
- 1 piece Cinnamon stick
- 4 pods Cardamom pods
- 4 pieces Cloves
- 1 piece Bay leaf
- 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 cup Frozen green peas (optional)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
Instructions
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Set the rice aside to drain.
In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the coconut oil or ghee over medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaf. Sauté for 30-45 seconds until the spices release their aroma.
Stir in the turmeric powder and salt, then add the rinsed and drained basmati rice. Stir gently to coat the rice with the oil and spices.
Pour in the 2 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer for 15 minutes without uncovering or stirring.
If desired, add the frozen green peas to the rice during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
After 15 minutes, turn off the heat and let the pan sit, covered, for another 5 minutes to allow the steam to finish cooking the rice.
Fluff the rice gently with a fork and discard the whole spices (cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaf).
Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve warm. Enjoy your sugar-free spiced pilau rice as a side or base for your favorite main dishes!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
492 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 16.7 g | 21% | |
| Saturated Fat | 12.3 g | 62% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1231 mg | 54% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 76.0 g | 28% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.2 g | 40% | |
| Total Sugars | 6.1 g | ||
| Protein | 13.9 g | 28% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 192 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 8.5 mg | 47% | |
| Potassium | 502 mg | 11% | |
*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.
