Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups cooked long-grain white rice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and onion and cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the rice and spices and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.
4. Add the vegetable broth and raisins and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes.
6. Add the spinach and parsley and cook, stirring, until the spinach is wilted, about 5 minutes.
7. Season with salt, to taste.
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Temperature: Medium heat
Serving Size: 4
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 230
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 6g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Olive oil: canola oil
- Garlic: garlic powder
- Onion: shallot
- Long-grain white rice: brown rice
- Vegetable broth: chicken broth
- Raisins: dried cranberries
- Spinach: kale
- Parsley: cilantro
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or beef for additional protein
- Add diced bell peppers for additional flavor and color
- Use basmati rice instead of long-grain white rice
Tips and Tricks:
- If using brown rice, increase the cooking time to 25 minutes
- If the rice is not cooked through, add a little more broth and continue cooking until done
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve in a large bowl with a dollop of plain yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Sliced almonds
- Toasted sesame seeds
Pairings:
- Grilled chicken
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed fish
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted potatoes
- Sauteed greens
- Roasted cauliflower
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the rice is still too hard after cooking, add a little more broth and continue cooking until done.
- If the rice is too soft, reduce the heat and cook for a few more minutes.
Food Safety Advice:
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking.
- Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Food History:
Ballokume is a traditional Persian dish that is typically served with a variety of vegetables, herbs, and spices. It is believed to have originated in the Middle East and has been enjoyed for centuries.
Flavor Profiles:
This dish has a savory flavor with a hint of sweetness from the raisins. The spices add a warm, earthy flavor that is balanced by the freshness of the spinach and parsley.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this dish with a side of grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
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Region: Algerian