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Rice Pilaf With Carrots And Raisins

Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Rice:
  • 2 cups of parboiled Sella basmati rice rinsed, soaked, and drained
  • 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee
  • 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon of minced garlic
  • 3 1/2 cups of beef broth you may need more
  • 2 teaspoons of coriander
  • 2 teaspoons of salt adjust to taste
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 1 teaspoon of paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom
  • 1/2 teaspoon of cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon
For the Carrots and Raisins:
  • 1 cup of raisins soaked in hot water for 10 minutes and drained
  • 2 cups of carrots shredded or cut into matchsticks
  • 1 tablespoon of ghee
  • 1 teaspoon of sugar optional

Method
 

For the Carrots and Raisins:
  1. In a pan over medium heat, melt the ghee and add the carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes until the carrots are soft. If needed, add a little water to help soften them.
  2. Add the drained raisins and sugar (if using), and sauté for another minute. Remove from heat and set aside.
For the Rice:
  1. Rinse the rice until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 30 minutes to an hour.
  2. In a pot over medium heat, melt the ghee and add the tomato paste. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the color deepens.
  3. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute. Then pour in the beef broth and add all the spices for the rice. Mix well and bring to a boil.
  4. Once boiling, add the rinsed and drained rice. Bring back to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 12 to 14 minutes until the rice is tender but not mushy.
  5. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing it up with a fork.
  6. Transfer the rice to a serving dish and top it with the carrots and raisins. Serve warm!

Notes

  • Adjust the salt according to your taste, especially if using beef broth with varying sodium levels.
  • You can garnish the rice with fried almond slices, pine nuts, or cilantro along with the carrots and raisins.
  • If you prefer, you can also prepare the rice using a rice cooker or Instant Pot for convenience. Enjoy your flavorful rice dish!