| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 315 | 5.2g | 0.7g | 60g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 3.1g | 6.7g | 0.23g |
The first time I ever tasted a Rice Pilaf with Grains of Selim, the explosion of flavors left an indelible mark on my taste buds. This sumptuous dish, made with vibrant grains, aromatic spices, and a delightful medley of fruits, coalesces into a melody of tastes that make it a firm favorite in my kitchen. It speaks to my Californian roots, marrying health-conscious eating with classic comfort food in a single, delicious bite.
The Colorful Twist
One of the things I adore most about this recipe is the incorporation of mixed fruit. The chopped apricots, cranberries, and raisins provide a vibrant splash of color and a surprise burst of sweetness, strong enough to tease palate but light enough to play second fiddle to the robust grains and herbs. Not only do they add delight to the dish, they also pack it with potent antioxidants, essential vitamins, and fiber (source) .
A Recipe for All Seasons
The versatility of the Rice Pilaf with Grains of Selim deserves a mention too. It’s a dish that transforms beautifully with the changing seasons, graciously accommodating a variety of fruits and nuts. Throughout the year, this recipe shifts and grows with your kitchen, offering a delightful spectrum of tastes and textures. You could pair it with aggressive curries, or balance it with milder dishes. Fans of Moroccan cuisine might see shades of their iconic Pastilla- a delightful crumble of sweet and savory – in this dish.
As a parent to three wonderful children, I’ve also come to appreciate the convenience of this dish. A quick pit stop at the farmer’s market provides me with everything I need to whip up this healthy, comfort-infused recipe in no time. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday afternoon, this recipe seldom fails to hit the right spot.
In conclusion, this Rice Pilaf with Grains of Selim recipe is an ode to fresh Californian produce and a testament to America’s love for comfort food. Every spoonful is beautifully balanced, health-packed, and downright delicious. I’m excited to share this part of my kitchen with yours and I hope you cherish it as much as I do. Bon Appétit!
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup Basmati Rice
- 2 Grains of Selim
- 2.5 cups Water
- 1 Bay Leaf
- 1 Small Onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup Mixed Fruit (like chopped apricots, cranberries, raisins)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 1/4 cup Almonds, chopped and toasted
- 1/4 cup Parsley, finely chopped
Method
Step One
First, rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Let the rice drain completely.
Step Two
In a medium-sized pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until the onion becomes translucent and soft. This would usually take around 5 minutes.
Step Three
Add the grains of selim and bay leaf to the pot and stir for another minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step Four
Next, add the drained rice to the pot. Stir well to ensure that the grains of rice are well coated in the oil and spices. Cook for about 2 minutes.
Step Five
Pour in the water, and then add the salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot and let it simmer for around 15 to 20 minutes. It’s important not to stir the rice during this time.
Step Six
After the rice is fully cooked and the water has been absorbed, remove the pot from the heat. Let it stand, covered, for about 5 minutes to let the flavors really soak into the rice.
Step Seven
Stir in the mixed fruit, almonds, and parsley. Now, rice pilaf with grains of selim is ready to be served. Enjoy it as a side dish or as a hearty main course.
