Basmati Rice Pilaf

Ingredients and Weight:

• Basmati Rice: 500 grams
• Chicken Broth: 1 liter
• Onion: 1 large, chopped
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Red Bell Pepper: 1, chopped
• Dried Apricots: 1/2 cup, chopped
• Fresh Peas: 1/2 cup (or frozen peas)
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Ground Cumin: 1 teaspoon
• Ground Coriander: 1/2 teaspoon
• Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons for cooking

Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cooking: 40 minutes
• Total: 60 minutes

Difficulty Level: 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil and add the chopped onions and garlic. Saute until the onions are translucent.
2. Add the red bell pepper and continue to cook for another minute.
3. Stir in the Basmati rice and coat it with the vegetable mixture.
4. Pour the chicken broth into the pan and season with salt, ground cumin, and ground coriandder. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer until most of the liquid is absorbed.
6. Stir in the chopped dried apricots and fresh/frozen peas.
7. Cover the pot and cook for another 15-20 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
8. Fluff the rice pilaf with a fork and serve hot.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving (based on US nutritional database)
• Carbohydrates: Complex carbohydrates from rice and fruits
• Protein: From chicken broth and rice
• Fat: From vegetable oil, chicken broth, and dried fruits
• Fiber: Provided by rice and dried fruits

Dish Characteristics:

• This Basmati Rice Pilaf is a perfect blend of Eastern and Western flavors, with a touch of Indian spices.
• The combination of Basmati rice, dried apricots, and fresh/frozen peas gives it a unique texture and flavor profile.
• It is hearty, yet light, making it a great side dish or even a meal on its own.

User Comments:

• "The flavors were amazing! The combination of spices and fruits was unexpected but delicious." - John Doe
• "This is a great dish for a family gathering or a special occasion. Everyone loved it!" - Jane Smith
• "I made this for dinner, and it was a hit! The texture of the rice was perfect." - Michael Johnson

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to use Basmati rice for its unique flavor and texture. Other types of rice may not yield the same results.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference. You can add more salt or spices if desired.
• If using frozen peas, add them towards the end of the cooking process to retain their color and texture.