Nut-Free Fragrant Spiced Rice

Elevate your side dish game with this Nut-Free Fragrant Spiced Rice, a flavorful and aromatic creation perfect for complementing any meal. Infused with the warm, earthy scents of whole spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and star anise, this nut-free recipe is a deliciously inclusive option for those with allergies. Basmati rice takes center stage, absorbing the rich flavors of cumin and garlic, while sautéed onions add a subtle sweetness. This easy-to-make dish is ready in under 30 minutes and garnished with fresh cilantro for a bright, herby finish. Ideal for pairing with curries, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables, this spiced rice is a crowd-pleaser that brings the taste of fragrant Indian-inspired cuisine right to your table.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 3.5 cups water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large bay leaf
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4 cardamom pods
• 4 cloves
• 1 star anise
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 medium onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in enough water to cover it for at least 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

Peel and finely chop the onion. Mince the garlic cloves. Roughly chop the fresh cilantro for garnish and set aside.

Step 3

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.

Step 4

Add the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, star anise, and cumin seeds to the oil. Stir and cook for about 1 minute until the spices release their aroma.

Step 5

Add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.

Step 6

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

Step 7

Add the drained rice to the pan, stirring to coat it with the spice mixture and oil. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors.

Step 8

Pour in the 3.5 cups of water and add the salt. Stir to combine.

Step 9

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and all the water is absorbed.

Step 10

Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This will allow the rice to steam and become fluffy.

Step 11

Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with the chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy your nut-free fragrant spiced rice!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1465.2 grams (1465.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	898

Total Fat 32.90g	42%
Saturated Fat 5.20g	26%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2433mg	106%
Total Carbohydrate 135.60g	49%
Dietary Fiber 11.90g	43%
Total Sugars 8.00g
Protein 19.60g	39%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 316mg	24%
Iron 13mg	73%
Potassium 748mg	16%

*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: 32.3%

Protein: 8.6%

Carbs: 59.2%