Indian Almond Rice

Indian Almond Rice Recipe - Flavorful Vegetarian Indian Dish

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Indian Almond Rice is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the nuttiness of almonds with the sweetness of golden raisins and the warm spices of turmeric and curry powder. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or as a side dish to accompany your favorite Indian meal.

History

Indian Almond Rice has its roots in traditional Indian cuisine, where rice is a staple food and is often flavored with a variety of spices, nuts, and dried fruits. This dish is a popular choice for festive occasions and celebrations, as it is both delicious and visually appealing.

Ingredients

1 cup of uncooked basmati rice
2 cups of veggie stock or water
2 tbsp of olive oil
0.5 cup of golden raisins
0.5 cup of slivered almonds
1 onion, chopped fine
2 tbsp of fresh cilantro, minced
2 tsp of turmeric
1 tsp of curry powder

How to prepare

In a medium saucepan, heat the oil. Add the onions, raisins, almonds, turmeric, and curry powder. Sauté for a few minutes until the onions are tender. Increase the heat to high and quickly add the rice and water, stirring well. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 10 minutes or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed (do not uncover until 10 minutes have passed). Remove from heat and let it rest for another 10 minutes. Remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Lightly stir in the minced cilantro and serve.

Variations

Add diced vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or carrots for added color and nutrition.
Substitute cashews or pistachios for the almonds for a different flavor profile.
Use coconut milk instead of water for a creamier texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to sauté the onions, raisins, and almonds until they are fragrant and golden brown to enhance their flavors.

- Use high-quality basmati rice for the best results, as it has a long grain and a fragrant aroma.

- Let the rice rest for 10 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together and the rice to fluff up.

Serving Suggestions

Indian Almond Rice can be served as a side dish with your favorite Indian curry or grilled meats. It pairs well with raita (yogurt sauce) and a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making perfect Indian Almond Rice is to sauté the aromatics and nuts before adding the rice and water. This helps to release their flavors and create a fragrant base for the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have basmati rice, you can use jasmine or long-grain white rice as a substitute. You can also use dried cranberries or apricots instead of golden raisins.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sautéed onion, raisin, and almond mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook the rice. This will save you time on busy weeknights.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Indian Almond Rice with additional slivered almonds and fresh cilantro for a beautiful presentation. Serve it in a decorative bowl or on a platter for a special touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Indian Almond Rice pairs well with a variety of Indian dishes, such as chicken tikka masala, lamb curry, or vegetable biryani. It also goes well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and lentil dishes.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Indian Almond Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rice in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Indian Almond Rice contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Indian Almond Rice contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Indian Almond Rice contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Indian Almond Rice contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Indian Almond Rice is a good source of vitamin E, magnesium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (almonds) and may not be suitable for those with nut allergies.

Summary

Indian Almond Rice is a nutritious dish that is rich in carbohydrates, healthy fats, and proteins. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals, making it a well-rounded meal option.

Summary

Indian Almond Rice is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for special occasions or as a side dish to accompany your favorite Indian meal. With its fragrant spices, crunchy almonds, and sweet raisins, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in India. My grandmother, who was renowned for her delicious cooking, had invited a group of friends over for a special feast. As I watched her bustle around the kitchen, adding a pinch of this and a dash of that to her pots and pans, I knew that I wanted to learn everything I could from her.

One of the dishes she prepared that day was Indian Almond Rice. The aroma of toasted almonds and fragrant spices filled the air, and my mouth watered in anticipation. I watched as she carefully measured out the ingredients, explaining each step as she went along. The rice was fluffy and perfectly cooked, each grain infused with the flavors of cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. And the almonds added a delightful crunch that made every bite a delight.

After everyone had finished eating and the last dish was cleared away, I approached my grandmother and asked her if she would teach me how to make Indian Almond Rice. She smiled at me, her eyes crinkling in amusement, and agreed to pass on her recipe to me.

Over the next few weeks, I spent every spare moment in the kitchen with my grandmother, learning the intricacies of Indian cooking. She showed me how to toast the almonds until they were golden brown, how to infuse the rice with the flavors of the spices, and how to cook everything together until it was a perfect blend of textures and tastes.

I was a quick learner, and soon I was able to make Indian Almond Rice on my own. I would invite friends and family over to taste my creations, and they were always amazed at how delicious it was. My grandmother beamed with pride every time I served her recipe, knowing that her culinary legacy would live on through me.

As the years went by, I continued to refine my skills in the kitchen, experimenting with new ingredients and techniques. But no matter how many dishes I learned to make, Indian Almond Rice remained a favorite among my friends and family. It was a dish that brought people together, its comforting flavors and fragrant aromas evoking memories of home and hearth.

And so, whenever I make Indian Almond Rice now, I think back to that day when I first learned the recipe from my grandmother. I remember her patient guidance, her unwavering love, and her belief in me as a budding chef. And I am grateful for the gift she gave me, not just of a delicious dish, but of a passion for cooking that has enriched my life in so many ways.

So the next time you taste my Indian Almond Rice, know that it is more than just a dish on a plate. It is a tribute to my grandmother, to her wisdom and kindness, and to the joy of sharing a meal with those you love. And I hope that it brings you as much happiness and contentment as it has brought me over the years.