Nut-Free Spiced Pilau Rice

Elevate your meal with this aromatic Nut-Free Spiced Pilau Rice, a vibrant and allergen-friendly twist on a classic Indian-inspired side dish. Fluffy basmati rice is infused with a medley of warm spices—including cinnamon, cardamom, and turmeric—offering a fragrant and flavorful base that pairs beautifully with curries, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables. The optional addition of sweet peas adds a pop of color and texture, while the recipe’s nut-free preparation makes it perfect for accommodating dietary restrictions. Ready in just 35 minutes, this comforting and easy-to-follow dish is a versatile crowd-pleaser, garnished with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this spiced rice is sure to shine on your table!

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

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 Vegetable oil
• 1 medium Yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Ginger, freshly grated
• 1 piece Cinnamon stick
• 4 pods Cardamom pods, lightly crushed
• 4 pieces Cloves
• 0.5 teaspoons Ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 1 piece Bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 cup Frozen peas (optional)
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.

Step 2

In a wide, heavy-bottomed pan or a deep skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.

Step 4

Add the chopped onion, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it becomes golden brown.

Step 5

Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until aromatic.

Step 6

Add the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, ground turmeric, and bay leaf. Stir to coat the spices in the oil and release their aroma, about 1 minute.

Step 7

Add the rinsed rice to the pan, gently stirring to coat the grains with the spiced mixture, and toast for 2-3 minutes.

Step 8

Pour in the water and add salt. Stir briefly, then bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 9

Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, reduce the heat to low, and let the rice cook undisturbed for 15 minutes.

Step 10

If using frozen peas, add them on top of the rice after 10 minutes of cooking (do not stir). They will cook with the steam during the last 5 minutes.

Step 11

After 15 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for another 5 minutes to finish steaming.

Step 12

Remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork, avoiding breaking the grains.

Step 13

Discard the whole spices (cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaf) before serving.

Step 14

Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired, and serve hot as a side dish or a light main.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1560.5 grams (1560.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	936

Total Fat 30.30g	39%
Saturated Fat 4.70g	24%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.80g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2432mg	106%
Total Carbohydrate 146.30g	53%
Dietary Fiber 16.60g	59%
Total Sugars 13.80g
Protein 25.30g	51%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 282mg	22%
Iron 13mg	71%
Potassium 871mg	19%

*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: 28.4%

Protein: 10.6%

Carbs: 61.0%