Side Dishes > Rice > Pilaf

Kumis-Infused Rice Pilaf Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups of Basmati rice
- 4 cups of water
- 1 cup of Kumis (fermented mare's milk)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley

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

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Rinse the Basmati rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the Basmati rice to the pot and stir to coat the rice with the onion and garlic mixture.
4. Pour in the Kumis and water, and add the salt and black pepper. Stir well.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
6. Simmer the rice for 18-20 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
8. Fluff the rice with a wooden spoon and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.


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

Nutritional information:
Calories: 290
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 410mg
Fiber: 1g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of long-grain rice instead of Basmati rice.
- If you can't find Kumis, you can substitute it with plain yogurt or buttermilk.

Variations:
- Add diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
- Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water for a richer taste.
- Add raisins or dried cranberries for a sweet and tangy twist.

Tips and tricks:
- Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and prevent the rice from becoming sticky.
- Use a wooden spoon to stir the rice to prevent it from sticking to the pot.
- Let the rice sit for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the steam to finish cooking the rice and make it fluffier.

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

Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the rice, place it in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the rice in a large bowl or platter, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
- Serve the rice alongside grilled meats or vegetables for a complete meal.

Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro
- Sliced green onions
- Toasted almonds or pine nuts

Pairings:
- Grilled chicken or beef
- Roasted vegetables
- Fresh salads

Suggested side dishes:
- Naan bread or pita bread
- Hummus or baba ganoush
- Tzatziki sauce or raita

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the rice is too dry, add a splash of water or broth and stir well.
- If the rice is too wet, remove the lid and let it cook for a few more minutes to evaporate the excess liquid.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the rice thoroughly to prevent foodborne illness.
- Store any leftover rice in the refrigerator and reheat it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before eating.

Food history:
- Kumis is a traditional beverage in Central Asia, made by fermenting mare's milk. It is known for its tangy and slightly sour taste, and is often used in cooking.

Flavor profiles:
- The Kumis adds a tangy and slightly sour flavor to the rice, while the onion and garlic add savory notes. The parsley adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the rice as a side dish or as a main course with grilled meats or vegetables.
- Pair the rice with a fresh salad or bread for a complete meal.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: N/A

Taste: Tangy, Sweet, Aromatic, Savory