A beautifully spiced and aromatic dish, Middle Eastern Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onions and Nuts brings warmth and elegance to the table. With fluffy basmati rice, sweet raisins, toasted nuts, and golden onions, it’s a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that complements a wide range of dishes or stands alone as a satisfying vegetarian entrée.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This rice pilaf recipe is a celebration of Middle Eastern culinary tradition, featuring warm spices like cinnamon and cumin, sweet dried fruits, and the deep flavor of slow-cooked onions. It’s naturally vegetarian, incredibly fragrant, and suitable for both everyday meals and festive occasions. The dish is also easily scalable for a crowd and makes excellent leftovers.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups basmati rice
3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 large onion, thinly sliced
1/3 cup golden raisins
1/4 cup dried currants or chopped prunes
1/3 cup slivered almonds or pine nuts
2 tbsp olive oil or ghee
1 cinnamon stick
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/4 tsp ground allspice
Salt and black pepper, to taste

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak for 20 minutes, then drain well.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil or ghee. Add the sliced onions and sauté, stirring frequently, until golden brown and caramelized, about 15–20 minutes. Remove half of the onions and set aside for garnish.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the soaked and drained rice with the remaining caramelized onions, raisins, currants or prunes, almonds or pine nuts, cumin, allspice, and salt and pepper to taste. Add the cinnamon stick.
5. Transfer the mixture to a deep baking dish. Pour in the broth and stir gently to combine.
6. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed.
7. Remove from the oven, fluff the rice with a fork, and discard the cinnamon stick. Top with the reserved caramelized onions before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Add protein: Mix in cooked chickpeas, shredded chicken, or lamb for a heartier version.
• Spice it up: Include a pinch of cardamom or a bay leaf for added complexity.
• Use other nuts: Try cashews, pistachios, or walnuts instead of almonds or pine nuts.
• Fruit alternatives: Substitute apricots, dates, or cranberries for the raisins or currants.
• Skillet method: Cook entirely on the stovetop if you prefer not to use the oven—just simmer covered until the rice is tender.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, sprinkle with a little water and cover with a lid or damp paper towel. Warm in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. This pilaf also freezes well—store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and reheat directly from frozen.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of basmati?

Yes, but brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. Adjust accordingly.

What is the best substitute for pinenuts?

Slivered almonds, chopped pistachios, or sunflower seeds are good alternatives.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of baking?

Yes, simmer the rice mixture in a covered pot over low heat for 20–25 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed.

Is this dish vegan?

Yes, when made with vegetable broth and olive oil instead of ghee, this dish is fully vegan.

Can I omit the dried fruit?

Certainly. The dish will still be flavorful, though the sweetness adds a nice contrast to the savory components.

How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?

Be sure to rinse and soak the rice properly and measure the liquid precisely.

Can I add fresh herbs?

Yes, chopped parsley or cilantro makes a lovely fresh garnish.

What can I serve with this pilaf?

It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, yogurt sauce, or fresh salads.

Does this dish contain gluten?

No, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the broth used is certified gluten-free.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, this pilaf can be made a day ahead and reheated before serving. The flavors deepen over time.

Conclusion

Middle Eastern Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onions and Nuts is a dish that combines elegance with comfort. Whether served alongside a main course or enjoyed as a stand-alone meal, its layers of flavor and texture make it a versatile addition to your table. With sweet, savory, and spiced elements all in harmony, this recipe is a celebration of tradition and taste that’s sure to impress.

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