Raisin Pilau

Maltese Raisin Pilau Recipe with Long-Grain Rice and Chicken Broth

Region / culture: Malta | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tofu chili is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. This recipe combines the protein-packed goodness of tofu with the rich flavors of chili powder, cumin, and other spices to create a satisfying meal that will warm you up on a cold day.

History

Tofu chili is a modern twist on traditional chili recipes, which typically use ground beef or other meats as the main protein source. Tofu, a versatile and nutritious ingredient made from soybeans, is a popular meat substitute in vegetarian and vegan cooking. By using tofu in this chili recipe, you can enjoy all the flavors and textures of a classic chili dish without the meat.

Ingredients

0.25 cup butter or margarine
1 small onion, sliced
0.25 cup slivered almonds (preferably blanched)
0.25 cup golden raisins or sultanas
1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
2 cups hot canned clear chicken broth

How to prepare

In a saucepan, melt butter or margarine and sauté onion, almonds, and raisins or sultanas until the onion slices are golden.
Add rice and mix well.
Pour in hot chicken broth.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 6-cup casserole dish.
Cover the dish.
Bake at 375°F (191°C) for 25 – 30 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes, corn, or black beans for extra flavor and texture.
Use different spices such as smoked paprika, oregano, or chipotle powder to customize the flavor of the chili.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Freezing the tofu overnight and then thawing it helps to give it a firmer texture that will hold up well in the chili.

- Sautéing the green pepper, onions, and garlic before adding them to the chili helps to bring out their flavors and create a rich base for the dish.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder and cumin to suit your taste preferences. You can always add more spices if you like a spicier chili.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the tofu chili hot with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions on top. It pairs well with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the chili helps to develop their flavors and create a rich base for the dish.

- Simmering the chili for at least 20 minutes allows the flavors to meld together and creates a thick and hearty texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of beans in place of pinto beans, such as kidney beans, black beans, or chickpeas.

- If you don't have tamari, you can use soy sauce instead.

Make Ahead Tips

Tofu chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the tofu chili in individual bowls garnished with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or a slice of lime for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair tofu chili with a crisp green salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover tofu chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 35g

- Dietary Fiber: 10g

- Sugars: 3g

Fats

- Total Fat: 12g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 18g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

- Vitamin C: 30%

- Calcium: 15%

- Iron: 20%

Alergens

Contains soy

Summary

Tofu chili is a nutritious and satisfying dish that is high in protein and fiber. It is a great option for vegetarians and vegans looking for a hearty meal that is packed with flavor.

Summary

Tofu chili is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite spices and ingredients. Enjoy a bowl of tofu chili on a cold day for a comforting and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

It feels like just yesterday when I stumbled upon this recipe for Raisin Pilau. I was a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my mother who was a skilled chef herself. It was during one of our family gatherings that my aunt, who had just returned from a trip to India, shared this exotic recipe with us.

As she passionately described the flavors and aromas of this dish, I was immediately intrigued. I could almost taste the blend of spices and sweetness of the raisins in my mouth. I begged my aunt to teach me how to make it, and she graciously agreed.

We spent the entire afternoon in the kitchen, as my aunt patiently guided me through each step of the recipe. From toasting the spices to sautéing the onions and cooking the rice, I watched intently, absorbing every detail. And when it was finally time to add the raisins, I knew this dish was going to be something special.

As the pilau simmered on the stove, the kitchen filled with the most intoxicating aroma. The spices mingled with the sweetness of the raisins, creating a symphony of flavors that danced in the air. I couldn't wait to taste it.

When the pilau was finally ready, my aunt served it with a side of raita and fresh naan. I took my first bite, and my taste buds exploded with delight. The rice was perfectly cooked, each grain fluffy and infused with the flavors of the spices. The raisins added a burst of sweetness that balanced out the dish perfectly.

From that moment on, Raisin Pilau became a staple in our family gatherings. I would make it for special occasions, impressing my relatives with my newfound culinary skills. And each time I cooked it, I would think back to that day in the kitchen with my aunt, grateful for her guidance and the gift of this delicious recipe.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks to the original recipe, adding my own twist to make it truly my own. I have experimented with different types of rice, varied the spices, and even tried adding nuts for an extra crunch. But no matter how many variations I make, the essence of the dish remains the same – a perfect blend of flavors that always brings back memories of that first taste.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to my own grandchildren, I hope that they will find the same joy and satisfaction in cooking as I have. And who knows, maybe one day they will stumble upon a new recipe that will capture their hearts and taste buds, just like Raisin Pilau did for me all those years ago.