Ingredients

Step 1

• 1 onion or a few shallots, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Step 2

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon dry mint
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

Step 3

• 1 cup Jasmine rice
• 1,5 cup low-sodium home made chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step 4

• A bunch of fresh coriander (or parsley)
• 1 tablespoon of raisins (optional if you have a sweet tooth)

Prep Instructions

1. First saute the aromatics. In a pan heat up olive oil, add the shallots and garlic and cook over medium high until all ingredients become soft and the onion translucent.
2. Next step is all about infusing the veggies with the spices. Add cinnamon, mint, pistachios, cumin and cook until fragrant around 30 seconds.
3. Add the rice and cook, stirring, until the grains are well-coated and look translucent. Not longer than 3 minutes.
4. Boost the flavor by adding the broth.  Season with salt and pepper, bring to a boil, and reduce to a bare simmer. Cover and cook until liquid has been absorbed, 10-12 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Then cover the pot with a clean dish towel and seal with the lid for 5 minutes. The towel absorbs steam, so the rice stays fluffy.
6. Before serving, add in a bunch of chopped fresh cilantro (you could replace it with parsley, mint or chives) and a handful of coarsely chopped toasted nuts (almonds, pecans, pistachios, pine nuts, or hazelnuts). It will add en extra crunch. If you need some sweets you could add a few raisins.

Nutrition Facts & Tips

What is pilaf

Pilaf is a dish in which rice is cooked in a seasoned broth. In some cases, the rice may also attain its brown color by being stirred with pieces of cooked onion, as well as a mix of spices. (Wikipedia)

Pilaf flavor combinations suggestions

1. Fennel + turmeric + almonds + cilantro
2. Carrot + cumin + parsley + pine nuts
3. Garlic + cinnamon + mint + pistachios (my favorite)