The most delicious Arabic food

BHow to Make Flavorful Basmati Rice with Nuts

Basmati rice with nuts is a fragrant and delicious dish that pairs perfectly with Middle Eastern, Indian, and Mediterranean meals. It’s enriched with butter, aromatic spices, and crunchy nuts, making it a great side dish or even a meal on its own.

Ingredients

For the Rice:

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 3 cups water or broth (chicken or vegetable)
• 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric (for a golden color, optional)

For the Nuts & Garnish:

• ¼ cup slivered almonds
• ¼ cup cashews or pistachios
• ¼ cup pine nuts
• 2 tablespoons butter or ghee
• ¼ cup golden raisins (optional, for sweetness)
• Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice:

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. Soak the rice in water for 20-30 minutes, then drain.

2. Cook the Rice:

1. In a pot, heat 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil over medium heat.
2. (Optional) Sauté the chopped onion until soft, then add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Add the drained rice and stir for 1-2 minutes until the grains are lightly toasted.
4. Add the salt, cumin, cinnamon, cardamom, and turmeric. Stir well.
5. Pour in 3 cups of water or broth and bring to a boil.
6. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
7. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5-10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

3. Toast the Nuts & Raisins:

1. In a small pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter or ghee over medium heat.
2. Add almonds, cashews, and pine nuts, and toast until golden brown.
3. If using, add the raisins and stir until they puff up.
4. Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Assemble & Serve:

1. Fluff the cooked rice and transfer it to a serving dish.
2. Sprinkle the toasted nuts and raisins on top.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for extra freshness.
4. Serve warm with grilled meats, curries, or as a side to any festive meal!

Tips for the Best Basmati Rice with Nuts:

✅ Use high-quality basmati rice for the best texture and aroma.
✅ Broth instead of water adds more depth of flavor.
✅ Toast the nuts properly to enhance their crunch and nuttiness.
✅ For extra richness, drizzle some ghee over the rice before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful basmati rice with nuts! Would you like any variations, such as adding saffron or dried fruits? 😊