Pine Nut Pilaf

Pine Nut Pilaf is a fragrant and wholesome Lebanese dish, combining fluffy rice with the rich flavor of toasted pine nuts and aromatic spices. This delightful vegetarian meal is perfect for a light lunch and celebrates the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 150g
• Pine nuts - 40g
• Olive oil - 3 tablespoons
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Vegetable broth - 300ml
• Cinnamon stick - 1
• Bay leaf - 1
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 20 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the drained basmati rice and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to coat the rice with the oil.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth, add the cinnamon stick, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender.
6. Meanwhile, in a small skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the pine nuts and toast until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
7. Once the rice is cooked, remove it from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and remove the cinnamon stick and bay leaf.
8. Gently fold in the toasted pine nuts and chopped parsley before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 10 g
• Carbs: 60 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in healthy fats from pine nuts, which support heart health.
• High in fiber from rice and vegetables, promoting good digestion.

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