Middle Eastern Raisin Rice

Elevate your next meal with the aromatic allure of Middle Eastern Raisin Rice, a dish that combines fragrant spices, tender Basmati rice, and a medley of textures for an unforgettable experience. Infused with warm notes of cinnamon, cumin, and cardamom, this recipe layers flavor with sautéed onions and garlic before introducing bursts of sweetness from golden raisins and a delightful crunch from toasted almonds. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color, this versatile dish serves as a perfect side to grilled meats or hearty stews, while also standing strong on its own. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a simple cooking process, this spiced rice is an effortless way to add exotic flair to your dining table.

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups Basmati rice
• 3 cups Water
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 0.5 teaspoons Ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoons Ground cumin
• 0.25 teaspoons Ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoons Salt
• 0.75 cups Golden raisins
• 0.5 cups Sliced almonds, toasted
• 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the Basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside to drain.

Step 2

In a medium pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes, or until it becomes golden and translucent.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic, ground cinnamon, ground cumin, and ground cardamom. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the drained rice to the pot and stir to coat the grains in the spiced oil mixture.

Step 5

Pour in the water and add the salt. Stir once, then bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 6

Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Let the rice simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the water is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 7

Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow it to steam further.

Step 8

Uncover the pot and gently fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the golden raisins and toasted sliced almonds.

Step 9

Transfer the rice to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Step 10

Serve warm as a side dish or as part of a main meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1345.3 grams (1345.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1370

Total Fat 60.20g	77%
Saturated Fat 7.00g	35%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2427mg	106%
Total Carbohydrate 194.80g	71%
Dietary Fiber 14.80g	53%
Total Sugars 85.90g
Protein 28.60g	57%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 378mg	29%
Iron 11mg	61%
Potassium 1667mg	35%

*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: 37.7%

Protein: 8.0%

Carbs: 54.3%