Kavunlu Pilav

Kavunlu Pilav is a delightful Turkish rice dish that combines the sweetness of fresh melon with fragrant spices, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. This dairy-free recipe is perfect for a light meal or a side dish, showcasing the beauty of Turkish cuisine.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 150 grams
• Water - 400 ml
• Cantaloupe or honeydew melon - 200 grams, diced
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Onion - 1 small, finely chopped
• Garlic - 1 clove, minced
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon
• Cumin - 1/4 teaspoon
• Chopped fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons (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 the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the saucepan. Stir well to coat the rice with the oil and allow it to toast for 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour in the 400 ml of water, then add the salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and cumin. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan. Let it simmer for 15-18 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
7. Once cooked, remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork and gently fold in the diced melon.
9. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 6 g
• Carbs: 66 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Water: 0.4 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in vitamins and minerals from the melon, supporting overall health.
• Basmati rice provides a good source of carbohydrates for energy.

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