Middle Eastern > Rice > Pilaf

Cendil Pilaf Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups of basmati rice
- 4 cups of water
- 1 cup of frozen peas
- 1 cup of carrots, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1/4 cup of raisins
- 1/4 cup of slivered almonds

Special equipment needed:
- Large pot with lid
- Wooden spoon

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
4. Add the cumin and cook for another minute.
5. Add the rice, water, peas, carrots, salt, and black pepper to the pot.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
7. Cook for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
8. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes.
9. Fluff the rice with a wooden spoon and stir in the raisins and slivered almonds.
10. Serve hot.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat for sautéing, high heat for boiling, and low heat for simmering.
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4-6 people.

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 350
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Protein: 7g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 8g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of rice instead of basmati rice.
- Fresh peas can be used instead of frozen peas.
- Any type of nuts can be used instead of slivered almonds.
- Dried cranberries can be used instead of raisins.

Variations:
- You can add cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp to the pilaf for a protein boost.
- You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- You can use different spices such as turmeric, paprika, or coriander.

Tips and tricks:
- Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch.
- Use a wooden spoon to fluff the rice after cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Add a pinch of saffron to the rice for a fragrant and colorful twist.

Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover pilaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the pilaf in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the pilaf in a large bowl or on a platter.
- Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro.

Pairings:
- Serve the pilaf with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

Suggested side dishes:
- Greek salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Grilled asparagus

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the rice is still hard after cooking, add a splash of water and cook for a few more minutes.
- If the rice is too mushy, reduce the amount of water used in the recipe.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the rice to an internal temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.

Food history:
- Cendil Pilaf is a traditional Turkish dish that is typically served during special occasions.

Flavor profiles:
- This dish is savory with a hint of sweetness from the raisins and carrots.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the pilaf as a main dish or as a side dish with grilled meat or fish.

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Taste: Savory, Tangy, Herbal, Aromatic, Spicy