Pine nut and raisin pilaf with chicken liver is a delightful Middle Eastern dish that combines the rich flavors of tender chicken liver, toasted pine nuts, and sweet raisins, all cooked in a fragrant pilaf.

This recipe is a perfect harmony of textures and tastes, making it a delightful choice for a hearty and comforting meal.

Ingredients:

For this flavorful dish, you will need the following ingredients:.

1 cup of long-grain basmati rice
250g of chicken liver, washed and chopped into bite-sized pieces
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons of olive oil
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon of ground coriander
1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
1/4 cup of pine nuts, toasted
1/4 cup of raisins
2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Follow these simple steps to prepare the delicious pine nut and raisin pilaf with chicken liver:.

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Begin by rinsing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps remove excess starch and ensures fluffy rice.

In a medium-sized saucepan, add the rinsed rice and cover it with water. Let it soak for about 20 minutes.

Next, drain the soaked rice and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté until they turn translucent and lightly golden.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken Liver

Add the chopped chicken liver to the skillet, along with the cumin, cinnamon, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook the chicken liver until it is browned on all sides and cooked through, ensuring there are no traces of pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the cooked liver from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 4: Toast the Pine Nuts

In the same skillet, add the pine nuts and toast them for a few minutes until they become golden and fragrant. Make sure to stir them frequently to prevent burning.

Step 5: Add Rice and Raisins

Now, add the drained rice to the skillet, along with the toasted pine nuts and raisins. Gently stir to combine all the ingredients.

Step 6: Cook the Pilaf

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth into the skillet, stirring well to ensure everything is evenly distributed. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the rice simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once the pilaf is cooked, fluff the rice gently with a fork. Transfer the pilaf to a serving dish, and garnish it with fresh parsley or cilantro.

Enjoy this delightful pine nut and raisin pilaf with chicken liver as a main course or as a side dish. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or some creamy tzatziki sauce.

Variations:

This recipe can be easily customized to suit your preferences and dietary restrictions. Here are a few variations you can try:.

1. Vegetarian Option:

If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the chicken liver and replace it with tofu or your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Nut-Free Option:

If you have a nut allergy or prefer not to use pine nuts, you can substitute them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch and texture.

3. Moroccan Influence:

Add a touch of Moroccan flavor to your pilaf by incorporating a teaspoon of ras el hanout—a North African spice blend—into the dish for a warm and aromatic twist.

Conclusion

Pine nut and raisin pilaf with chicken liver is a sumptuous and flavorful dish that combines the richness of tender chicken liver with the delicate sweetness of raisins and the nuttiness of pine nuts.

This Middle Eastern-inspired recipe is a great way to elevate your rice dish to a whole new level. Impress your family and friends with this delightful and comforting meal option that is both satisfying and delicious.