Orange Cinnamon Rice Pilaf

Elevate your side dish game with this vibrant and aromatic Orange Cinnamon Rice Pilaf, a fragrant medley of basmati rice infused with freshly squeezed orange juice, zesty orange peel, and the warm spice of a cinnamon stick. Toasted slivered almonds and sweet golden raisins add delightful textures and flavors, while a garnish of fresh parsley brings a touch of brightness. Sautéed onions give the pilaf a savory base, and a hint of black pepper balances the sweetness for a well-rounded dish. Perfect as a side for roast chicken, grilled fish, or a festive vegetarian spread, this pilaf is a unique twist on a classic, ready in just 35 minutes. Easy, elegant, and bursting with citrusy warmth, it’s a must-try for your next dinner menu!

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 0.5 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 1 piece cinnamon stick
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion (finely chopped)
• 0.25 cup toasted slivered almonds
• 0.25 cup raisins
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

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

Step 2

Heat the olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.

Step 3

Add the drained basmati rice to the pan and stir to coat it in the oil and onions. Toast the rice for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes slightly golden.

Step 4

Pour in the water and orange juice, then add the orange zest, cinnamon stick, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 5

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid. Let the rice simmer for 15 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 6

Turn off the heat and allow the rice to sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This helps the rice steam and become fluffy.

Step 7

Remove the lid and discard the cinnamon stick. Gently fluff the rice with a fork.

Step 8

Stir in the toasted slivered almonds and raisins, distributing them evenly throughout the pilaf.

Step 9

Transfer the Orange Cinnamon Rice Pilaf to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	860.2 grams (860.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	825

Total Fat 44.10g	57%
Saturated Fat 5.60g	28%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1212mg	53%
Total Carbohydrate 98.30g	36%
Dietary Fiber 8.90g	32%
Total Sugars 30.40g
Protein 15.40g	31%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 202mg	16%
Iron 6mg	31%
Potassium 724mg	15%

*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: 46.6%

Protein: 7.2%

Carbs: 46.2%