| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 40 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 320 | 10g | 3g | 50g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 10g | 2g | 6g | 0.75g |
The Indian Nigella Seed Rice Pilaf holds a special place in my heart. Perhaps, it’s the surprising blend of intensity and freshness from the Nigella seeds—the same seeds that have found their way into countless dishes from my Japanese heritage. Or maybe it’s the familiar comfort of the Pacific Northwest raisins mixed in—a little bit of home in every bite. Either way, this recipe encapsulates the dual influence that has shaped my culinary journey.
A Delicious Fusion
The Indian Nigella Seed Rice Pilaf is not a typical entry in my cookbook, and yet, its flavors harmonize so well with my usual fare. Often, it feels like a charming bridge linking my fondness for both the East and the West. The Basmati rice forms a beautiful canvas, its fragrant, light, and fluffy properties lending itself well to the medley of spices and fruits. Then, upon this canvas, the Indian spices and the Pacific Northwest fruits create a true masterpiece—a testament to the magic that can happen when you begin to blend culinary influences.
Nurturing Your Health
But it’s not just the mouthwatering fusion of flavors that draws me to this dish. It’s also a modest feast of health benefits. The beautiful assortment of fruits integrated into the recipe are rich in vital vitamins and antioxidants. The ever-amazing Nigella seeds have been proven to have numerous health benefits, ranging from antioxidant properties to anti-inflammatory qualities. These seeds are indeed little powerhouses! Check out more about its health benefits here.
Feast your eyes on the aromatic Indian Nigella Seed Rice Pilaf recipe below!
Perfect Pairings
This recipe is a wonderful main dish packed full of flavor. But, it would also complement well with a range of other dishes. A classic chicken tikka masala or the very delicious palak paneer – both would pair aesthetically with the rice pilaf, creating a harmonious Indian feast that will leave you craving for more. If you’re in for a more Seattle styled pairing, how about grilled salmon or a hearty clam chowder? You can definitely find something that will work for you.
The Indian Nigella Seed Rice Pilaf recipe is flexible, nutritious, and, most importantly, delicious. It’s one of those dishes that continues to reiterate why I fell in love with the culinary world—a perfect blend of my heritage and present, plus a touch of health-conscious crafting. And that, in essence, is why I love this recipe.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups of Basmati Rice
- 1/2 cup of mixed fruit (such as raisins, apricots, dates, and/or prunes)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of Nigella seeds (Kalonji)
- 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of cumin seeds
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 cups of vegetable broth or water
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or ghee
- 1/2 cup of slivered almonds
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Method
Step One
Start by rinsing the Basmati rice under cold water until the water is clear. This removes excess starch and helps the rice remain fluffy. Once it is rinsed, set it aside.
Step Two
In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat the vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic cloves to the pan. Sauté until the onions start to brown.
Step Three
Once the onions are browned, add the Nigella seeds, turmeric powder, cardamom powder, cumin seeds, and the cinnamon stick. Stir well for 2-3 minutes to roast the spices.
Step Four
Now, add the rinsed Basmati rice to the pan. Keep stirring gently for 2-3 more minutes in order to let the rice get coated in the onion and spice mix.
Step Five
Now, it’s time to add the vegetable broth or water to the pan. Add a little salt to taste at this point. Increase the heat, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer for around 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and all the water has been absorbed.
Step Six
While the rice is cooking, toast the slivered almonds in a dry pan until golden. At this time also prep your mixed fruit, ensuring they are bite sized and relatively the same size.
Step Seven
Once the rice is cooked, fluff it gently with a fork. Add the toasted almonds and the mixed fruit to the rice, stirring gently to distribute evenly throughout.
Step Eight
Serve piping hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. Enjoy your Indian Nigella Seed Rice Pilaf. This dish pairs wonderfully well with a side of curry or grilled vegetables.
