Carrot and Raisin Rice

Carrot and Raisin Rice is a vibrant Moroccan-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of carrots and raisins with the earthy flavor of spices. This dairy-free recipe is not only colorful but also packed with nutrients, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 1 cup
• Carrots - 2 medium, grated
• Raisins - 1/4 cup
• Onion - 1 small, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Vegetable broth - 2 cups
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Ground cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 15 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the grated carrots to the saucepan, stirring well to combine. Cook for another 5 minutes until the carrots begin to soften.
4. Stir in the cumin, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the saucepan, stirring to coat the rice with the vegetable 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 15-18 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
7. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, then gently stir in the raisins.
8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 6 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in vitamins and antioxidants from carrots, promoting eye health.
• Provides a good source of fiber, aiding in digestion.

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