Orange Pilaf

Fragrant and bursting with vibrant flavors, Orange Pilaf is a stunning rice dish that combines the nutty aroma of basmati rice with the zesty brightness of fresh orange juice and zest. Enhanced by warm spices like cinnamon and cumin, this pilaf is beautifully balanced with the sweetness of plump raisins and the crunch of toasted slivered almonds. Tender sautéed onions and garlic impart a savory depth, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a final touch of freshness. Quick and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect as a side for roasted meats or as a light vegetarian entrée. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or elevating your weeknight meals, Orange Pilaf is sure to impress with its unique combination of citrusy sweetness and aromatic spices.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup BasmatI rice
• 1 tablespoon Orange zest
• 0.5 cup Fresh orange juice
• 1 cup Water
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 0.5 cup Yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 0.25 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.25 cup Raisins
• 0.25 cup Slivered almonds, toasted
• 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

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

Step 3

Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until it becomes translucent.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic, ground cinnamon, and ground cumin, and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Stir in the rinsed rice, ensuring it is well-coated with the spices and oil.

Step 6

Add the orange zest, orange juice, water, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid. Cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.

Step 8

After 15 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes to allow the rice to finish steaming.

Step 9

Fluff the rice with a fork, then gently fold in the raisins, toasted slivered almonds, and chopped parsley.

Step 10

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm as a side dish or light main course.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	768.4 grams (768.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	899

Total Fat 44.80g	57%
Saturated Fat 5.60g	28%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1209mg	53%
Total Carbohydrate 113.70g	41%
Dietary Fiber 9.70g	35%
Total Sugars 41.10g
Protein 17.30g	35%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 216mg	17%
Iron 7mg	37%
Potassium 1051mg	22%

*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: 43.5%

Protein: 7.5%

Carbs: 49.1%