Herbed Basmati Pilaf

Transform your mealtime routine with this fragrant Herbed Basmati Pilaf, a light and fluffy rice dish infused with bold, fresh flavors. Perfectly cooked Basmati rice is elevated with aromatic cumin seeds, sautéed onions, and a vibrant trio of parsley, cilantro, and mint, creating a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. A touch of olive oil adds richness, while the optional addition of sweet green peas lends a pop of color and natural sweetness. With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this easy-to-make pilaf pairs beautifully with curries, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables, making it the versatile side dish your dinner table has been craving.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Basmati rice
• 2 cups Water
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 small Onion
• 2 whole Garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 1 Bay leaf
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons Parsley
• 2 tablespoons Cilantro
• 2 tablespoons Mint leaves
• 0.5 cup Green peas (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the Basmati rice in cold water 2-3 times until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents clumping.

Step 2

Finely chop the onion and garlic. Roughly chop the parsley, cilantro, and mint leaves, and set them aside.

Step 3

In a medium saucepan with a lid over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the cumin seeds and toast for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

Step 5

Add the rinsed and drained Basmati rice to the pan. Stir gently to coat the rice in the oil mixture and toast lightly for 1-2 minutes.

Step 6

Add the water, bay leaf, and salt to the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid.

Step 7

Simmer the rice on low heat for about 15 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 8

If using green peas, stir them into the rice during the last 5 minutes of cooking and allow them to steam along with the rice.

Step 9

Remove the pan from the heat. Let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the steam to redistribute.

Step 10

Remove the bay leaf and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Stir in the chopped parsley, cilantro, and mint leaves to incorporate the fresh herby flavors.

Step 11

Serve warm as a side dish with your favorite curry or grilled entrée, or enjoy on its own.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	968.9 grams (968.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	671

Total Fat 30.20g	39%
Saturated Fat 4.70g	24%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1220mg	53%
Total Carbohydrate 85.20g	31%
Dietary Fiber 10.50g	38%
Total Sugars 12.50g
Protein 16.60g	33%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 189mg	15%
Iron 8mg	47%
Potassium 778mg	17%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 40.0%

Protein: 9.8%

Carbs: 50.2%