Basmati Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruit

Basmati Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruit Recipe from India

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Basmati Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruit is a delightful and aromatic dish that combines the fragrant basmati rice with the crunchiness of nuts and the sweet chewiness of dried fruits. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a colorful and vibrant addition to any meal. It's perfect for those who appreciate a touch of sweetness and texture in their savory dishes. The combination of spices, fruits, and nuts makes it a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish.

History

The recipe for Basmati Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruit has its roots in Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisines, where rice is a staple food and often cooked with a variety of spices, nuts, and fruits. This dish is inspired by the traditional pilafs and biryanis, which are known for their rich flavors and aromatic spices. Over time, it has evolved and been adapted by various cultures, incorporating local ingredients and cooking techniques, making it a global favorite.

Ingredients

1.5 cups uncooked basmati rice or other long grain rice
2 tbsp cooking oil
1 small onion, thinly sliced
1 tbsp minced ginger
2 tsp minced garlic
2 jalapeño or serrano chilies, minced
0.5 tsp garam masala
1 pinch white pepper
3 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth, or water
0.25 cup dried apricots, diced
0.25 cup toasted walnuts, coarsely chopped
0.25 cup toasted cashew halves
0.25 cup pitted prunes, chopped
2 tbsp green onion, chopped
2 tbsp toasted coconut
0.25 cup plum sauce

How to prepare

Soak the rice in enough water to cover for 30 minutes; then drain.
Heat a 3 qt (2.84 liter) pan over medium-high heat until hot.
Add the oil and the onion.
Cook, stirring, until the onion is lightly browned, about 1 minute.
Add the ginger, garlic, chilies, garam masala, salt, and pepper; cook for 10 seconds.
Add the rice and cook, stirring, until the mixture is well coated with the oil, about 1 minute.
Add the broth and bring to a boil.
Cook, uncovered, over medium-high heat until the liquid drops to the level of the rice.
Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer on low until the rice is tender, about 15 minutes.
Remove the rice to a serving platter.
Sprinkle the apricots, nuts, prunes, green onion, and coconut over the rice.
Serve with the plum sauce on the side.

Variations

For a vegan version, ensure the plum sauce is vegan-friendly or substitute it with a similar sauce.
Experiment with different nuts and dried fruits, such as almonds, raisins, or dried cherries, to vary the flavors and textures.
Add a protein source like chickpeas or diced chicken to make it a more filling main course.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results when making Basmati Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruit, consider the following tips:

- Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch, which helps in achieving fluffy rice.

- Soaking the rice for at least 30 minutes before cooking can shorten the cooking time and enhance the texture.

- Use a tight-fitting lid to ensure that the steam is trapped inside the pot, which helps in cooking the rice evenly.

- Toasting the nuts before adding them to the dish enhances their flavor and adds an extra crunch.

- Be creative with the choice of dried fruits and nuts based on availability and personal preference.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can be served as a main course for a light lunch or as a side dish with grilled meats or vegetables. It pairs well with yogurt or a cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the absorption method for cooking rice, where the rice is cooked in a precise amount of water, allowing it to absorb all the liquid and become tender without becoming mushy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Basmati rice can be substituted with jasmine rice for a similar aromatic flavor.

- If plum sauce is not available, a mixture of soy sauce and honey can be used as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors often enhance after a day, making it a great make-ahead meal option.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the rice on a large platter, garnished with extra nuts, dried fruits, and fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for added color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a light white wine, such as a Riesling or a Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the sweet and savory flavors of the rice.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little water if the rice has dried out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Basmati Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruit contains approximately 300 calories. The calories mainly come from the carbohydrates in the rice and the healthy fats in the nuts.

Carbohydrates

Basmati rice is a good source of carbohydrates, providing the energy needed for daily activities. A serving of this dish contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates, mainly from the rice and dried fruits. Carbohydrates are essential for brain function and act as the body's primary energy source.

Fats

The nuts in this recipe contribute healthy fats, which are crucial for heart health and maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. A serving of Basmati Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruit contains about 10 grams of fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats from the nuts.

Proteins

This dish provides a moderate amount of protein, approximately 5 grams per serving, coming from the nuts. While it's not a high-protein dish, it can be paired with other protein sources for a balanced meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Nuts and dried fruits are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, potassium, and magnesium. These nutrients support overall health, including heart health, bone strength, and the immune system.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as nuts. Individuals with nut allergies should avoid this dish or substitute nuts with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

Summary

Overall, Basmati Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruit is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and vitamins. It's a flavorful and colorful addition to any meal, offering health benefits while satisfying the taste buds.

Summary

Basmati Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruit is a versatile and flavorful dish that combines the best of sweet and savory flavors. With its rich history and nutritional benefits, it's a delightful addition to any meal, offering a unique taste experience that's both satisfying and healthy. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it's sure to impress with its vibrant colors, aromatic spices, and delicious combination of textures.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Basmati Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruit. It was many years ago, during a trip to India with my husband. We were exploring the bustling markets of Delhi when we stumbled upon a small, quaint spice shop tucked away in a narrow alleyway.

As soon as we entered the shop, the air was filled with the fragrant aromas of cumin, coriander, and cardamom. The shelves were lined with jars of vibrant spices and colorful packets of dried fruits and nuts. The shopkeeper, a kindly old man with a weathered face and twinkling eyes, greeted us warmly and invited us to sample some of his wares.

One particular blend caught my eye - a mixture of fragrant Basmati rice, golden raisins, slivered almonds, and toasted cashews. The shopkeeper explained that this was a traditional Indian recipe, passed down through generations in his family. He graciously shared the recipe with me, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Back home, I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work in my kitchen. The first step was to rinse the Basmati rice until the water ran clear, then soak it in cold water for thirty minutes. While the rice was soaking, I toasted the nuts in a dry skillet until they were golden and fragrant.

Next, I heated some ghee in a large pot and added whole spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves to infuse the ghee with their warm, aromatic flavors. I then added the drained rice to the pot, along with a pinch of salt and some water, and brought it to a boil.

Once the rice was cooked, I fluffed it with a fork and gently stirred in the toasted nuts, dried fruits, and a sprinkle of sugar for a touch of sweetness. The dish was a symphony of flavors and textures - the tender rice, the crunchy nuts, the chewy fruits, and the warm spices all coming together in perfect harmony.

I served the Basmati Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruit to my family that evening, and it was met with rave reviews. My husband declared it the best rice dish he had ever tasted, and my children couldn't get enough of the sweet and savory combination.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, each time tweaking it and adding my own little touches to make it my own. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all fallen in love with its exotic flavors and comforting warmth.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of that magical day in the spice shop in Delhi and the kind shopkeeper who shared his family recipe with me. It has become a staple in my repertoire, a dish that brings joy and comfort to all who taste it.

And so, as I sit here reminiscing about that fateful day in India, I am grateful for the gift of this recipe and the memories it has brought me. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to connect with my loved ones and create lasting memories. And this recipe for Basmati Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruit will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the beauty and richness of Indian cuisine and the generosity of strangers who become friends.