Basmati Rice Pilaf

Basmati Rice Pilaf is a fragrant and wholesome dish that combines long-grain basmati rice with a medley of colorful vegetables and aromatic spices. This healthy American-inspired rice dish is perfect as a side or a light main course, offering both nutrition and delightful flavors.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 1 cup (200g)
• Vegetable broth - 2 cups (480ml)
• Carrot - 1 medium, diced (60g)
• Bell pepper - 1 small, diced (75g)
• Peas - 1/2 cup (75g)
• Onion - 1 small, finely chopped (70g)
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Olive oil - 1 tablespoon (15ml)
• Cumin seeds - 1 teaspoon
• Turmeric powder - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the saucepan and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced carrot and bell pepper, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
5. Add the rinsed basmati rice to the saucepan and toast it for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to coat the grains with oil and spices.
6. Pour in the vegetable broth, turmeric powder, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
7. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
8. Remove the saucepan from heat and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Stir in the peas and chopped parsley.
9. Let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 8 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 500 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Water: 0.48 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in fiber, supporting digestive health.
• Low in cholesterol, making it heart-healthy.

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