Rice Pilaf
This dish represents a fusion of flavors and ingredients like Chicken, Lentils, Caramelized Onions, Pilaf, Saffron, Basmati Rice, Dates, and Golden Raisins from different culinary traditions, resulting in a rich and aromatic pilaf that showcases the diverse and complementary elements of Middle Eastern and South Asian cooking.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups basmati rice
A pinch of saffron threads
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, thinly sliced
2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup chopped dates
1/2 cup golden raisins
Sea salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water and set aside.
In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. Remove half of the caramelized onions and set aside for garnish.
To the remaining onions in the pot, add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides.
Stir in the lentils, ground cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, and cook for 1-2 minutes.
Add the rinsed basmati rice to the pot and stir to combine with the chicken and lentils.
Pour in the saffron water and chicken broth, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the chopped dates and golden raisins. Cover the pot and let it sit off the heat for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Fluff the pilaf with a fork and transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with the reserved caramelized onions and chopped fresh cilantro.
This flavorful and aromatic dish is sure to be a hit at any dinner table. Enjoy!
Thank you for trying this recipe. Please let me know how you liked it.
If you enjoyed this recipe, please take a look at other recipes on my Fast, simple and good rice page.
Rice Pilaf