Apricot Almond Pilaf

Ingredients and Weight:

• 2 cups (400g) basmati rice, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup (120g) dried apricots, chopped
• 1/2 cup (60g) sliced almonds
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper flakes
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups (480ml) vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup (60ml) plain yogurt (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

25 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2 (simple to moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, turmeric, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the rice and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and all the liquid has absorbed.
7. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes, covered.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the apricots and almonds.
9. Mix in the yogurt, if desired, and garnish with cilantro.

Nutritional Information:

Per serving (1/8 of the recipe):

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 6g
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g

Dish Characteristics:

• Fluffy and flavorful rice with a hint of sweetness from the apricots
• Crunchy almonds add texture
• Warm and fragrant spices create a comforting aroma
• Versatile side dish that pairs well with various entrees

User Comments:

• "This pilaf is so easy to make and tastes amazing. The combination of apricots and almonds is perfect."
• "I love the warm spices in this dish. It's the perfect comfort food for a cold night."
• "I served this pilaf with grilled chicken and it was a hit. Everyone loved it!"

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove the starch and prevent it from sticking together.
• If you don't have vegetable broth, you can use water and add a bouillon cube.
• Taste the pilaf before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed.
• Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture.