Rice Recipe
Description
This vibrant Greek-style rice dish is a delightful side that balances savory spices with the natural sweetness of dried apricots and currants. The fluffy rice absorbs the aromatic flavors of cumin and turmeric, creating a warm, golden hue and a comforting aroma. Crispy slivered almonds add a satisfying crunch, while fresh coriander provides a bright, herbal finish. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or stands alone as a hearty vegetarian meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, this dish brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with minimal effort and maximum flavor.Ingredients
Directions
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Heat butter and oil in a medium heavy-based saucepan over moderately high heat.
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Add the onion and cook, stirring frequently, for about 3 minutes or until soft and translucent.
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Stir in the turmeric and cumin, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add the rice and stir constantly to coat each grain in the butter and spice mixture.
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Pour in the water and add the crumbled stock cube, stirring gently to dissolve.
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Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low.
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Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 18 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and small craters appear on the surface of the rice.
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Remove the pan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and become fluffy.
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Gently fluff the rice with a fork, then fold in the cherry tomatoes, sliced dried apricots, currants, and slivered almonds.
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Garnish with chopped fresh coriander before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4 servings
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 231.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 23.5g37%
- Saturated Fat 13.1g66%
- Cholesterol 53.8mg18%
- Sodium 164.6mg7%
- Total Carbohydrate 6.8g3%
- Dietary Fiber 4.1g17%
- Sugars 1.5g
- Protein 2.2g5%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For the best texture, ensure the lid is tight-fitting to trap steam during simmering. Do not lift the lid while the rice is cooking, as this releases steam and can lead to undercooked grains.
If you do not have a stock cube, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano.
For added creaminess, serve with a dollop of Greek-style natural yoghurt on the side or stirred in gently after cooking.
Toast the slivered almonds in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes before adding them to the rice for extra crunch and flavor.