Let’s create some delicious and flavorful rice inspired by Afghan qabuli and Moroccan carrot salad! This dish combines the sweetness of carrots and raisins with fragrant spices, making it a true delight for your taste buds.
Rice Pilaf With Carrots And Raisins
Ingredients
For the Rice:
- 2 cups of parboiled Sella basmati rice rinsed, soaked, and drained
- 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of minced garlic
- 3 1/2 cups of beef broth you may need more
- 2 teaspoons of coriander
- 2 teaspoons of salt adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon of cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon
For the Carrots and Raisins:
- 1 cup of raisins soaked in hot water for 10 minutes and drained
- 2 cups of carrots shredded or cut into matchsticks
- 1 tablespoon of ghee
- 1 teaspoon of sugar optional
Instructions
For the Carrots and Raisins:
- In a pan over medium heat, melt the ghee and add the carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes until the carrots are soft. If needed, add a little water to help soften them.
- Add the drained raisins and sugar (if using), and sauté for another minute. Remove from heat and set aside.
For the Rice:
- Rinse the rice until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 30 minutes to an hour.
- In a pot over medium heat, melt the ghee and add the tomato paste. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the color deepens.
- Add the garlic and sauté for another minute. Then pour in the beef broth and add all the spices for the rice. Mix well and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the rinsed and drained rice. Bring back to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 12 to 14 minutes until the rice is tender but not mushy.
- Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing it up with a fork.
- Transfer the rice to a serving dish and top it with the carrots and raisins. Serve warm!
Notes
- Adjust the salt according to your taste, especially if using beef broth with varying sodium levels.
- You can garnish the rice with fried almond slices, pine nuts, or cilantro along with the carrots and raisins.
- If you prefer, you can also prepare the rice using a rice cooker or Instant Pot for convenience. Enjoy your flavorful rice dish!