Cilantro Rice Pilaf

Cilantro Rice Pilaf is a fragrant and flavorful vegan Moroccan dish that combines fluffy rice with fresh cilantro and aromatic spices. This vibrant dish is perfect as a side or a light main course, offering a delightful taste of North African cuisine.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 150 grams
• Vegetable broth - 300 ml
• Fresh cilantro - 30 grams, chopped
• Red onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
• Toasted almonds - 30 grams, slivered (optional for garnish)

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, then drain.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the rinsed rice, allowing it to toast slightly for 2 minutes while stirring constantly.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. 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.
6. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to steam.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in the chopped cilantro and lemon juice.
8. Serve warm, garnished with toasted almonds if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 6 g
• Carbs: 48 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties from cilantro.
• Provides a good source of fiber and essential nutrients from whole grains.

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