Riz Pilaf aux Épices

Riz Pilaf aux Épices is a fragrant and flavorful vegetarian dish that showcases the beauty of aromatic spices and fresh herbs. This delightful rice pilaf is perfect for a cozy dinner, bringing the essence of French cuisine to your table.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 150 grams
• Vegetable broth - 400 milliliters
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Shallots - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Carrot - 1 medium, diced
• Red bell pepper - 1 medium, diced
• Ground cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Ground coriander - 1 teaspoon
• Turmeric - 1/2 teaspoon
• Paprika - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Lemon zest - from 1 lemon

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 20 minutes before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the chopped shallots, cooking for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic, diced carrot, and red bell pepper to the saucepan, stirring for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, salt, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute to release the spices' aromas.
5. Add the drained basmati rice to the saucepan and stir well to coat the rice in the spice mixture.
6. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
7. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork, and stir in the chopped parsley and lemon zest before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 7 g
• Carbs: 55 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Water: 0.4 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants from spices like turmeric and paprika.
• High in fiber from vegetables, promoting digestive health.

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