Riz Pilaf Marocain

Riz Pilaf Marocain is a vibrant Moroccan rice dish infused with aromatic spices, vegetables, and nuts, delivering a delightful blend of flavors and textures. This vegetarian version is both hearty and satisfying, perfect for a cozy meal.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 150 grams
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Carrot - 1 medium, diced
• Bell pepper - 1 medium, diced
• Zucchini - 1 medium, diced
• Chickpeas - 100 grams, drained and rinsed
• Vegetable broth - 400 ml
• Raisins - 50 grams
• Almonds - 30 grams, slivered
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon
• Turmeric - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Fresh parsley - for garnish

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 olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic, diced carrot, bell pepper, and zucchini, cooking for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the drained chickpeas, raisins, cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and cook for 2 more minutes.
5. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the saucepan with the vegetable mixture. Stir to combine.
6. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
7. In a small pan, toast the slivered almonds over medium heat until golden brown, about 3 minutes, stirring frequently.
8. Fluff the rice pilaf with a fork, garnish with toasted almonds and chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 72 g
• Fiber: 10 g
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in plant-based protein from chickpeas.
• Packed with vitamins and minerals from a variety of vegetables.

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