Pilaf with raisins and nuts is a popular dish in many countries around the world, including Iran, Uzbekistan, and Turkey.

This flavorful and filling dish combines rice, flavorful spices, and sweet raisins and crunchy nuts to create a versatile and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Whether you are looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special dish to serve at your next dinner party, pilaf with raisins and nuts is a great choice.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you will need to make this delicious dish:.

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• 2 cups basmati rice
• 4 cups water
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp coriander seeds
• 1 tsp fennel seeds
• 1 stick cinnamon
• 4 cardamom pods
• 2 cloves
• 1 onion, diced
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup slivered almonds or pistachios
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
• Salt to taste

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your own pilaf with raisins and nuts:.

1. Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. In a dry skillet, toast the cumin, coriander, and fennel seeds, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves over medium heat until fragrant, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
3. Grind the toasted spices in a spice grinder until fine.
4. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven with a lid, heat the oil or ghee over medium-high heat.
5. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
6. Add the ground spices and salt to the onion mixture and sauté for another minute.
7. Add the drained rice and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the rice is coated evenly with the spice mixture.
8. Add the water, raisins, and nuts to the rice mixture. Bring to a boil, then cover the pan with the lid and reduce the heat to low.
9. Cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed.
10. Remove the pan from the heat and let stand for 5-10 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the great things about pilaf with raisins and nuts is how easy it is to customize to your own taste and preferences. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:.

• Use brown rice or quinoa instead of basmati rice.
• Swap out the raisins for dried cranberries or chopped apricots.
• Try using cashews, walnuts, or pine nuts instead of almonds or pistachios.
• For a spicier dish, add a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper along with the onion.
• Stir in some chopped fresh herbs, like cilantro or parsley, right before serving.

Nutritional Benefits

Pilaf with raisins and nuts is not only delicious, but it is also a nutritious and balanced meal. Here are some of the key nutritional benefits of this dish:.