Description
A fragrant and colorful Persian Tomato Pilaf made with basmati rice, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic spices. A comforting, healthy dish that brings exotic flair to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- A pinch of saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons warm water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
- Optional: 1/2 cup raisins
- Optional: 1/4 cup pine nuts or slivered almonds
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro)
Instructions
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain.
- Soak saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water.
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in chopped tomatoes, cumin, turmeric, and saffron water. Cook for about 5 minutes until tomatoes soften.
- Add drained rice to the pot, stirring gently to coat with tomato mixture.
- Pour in vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- If using, add raisins and nuts during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and garnish with herbs before serving.
Notes
For best results, toast rice in oil before adding liquid to enhance its nutty flavor. Use high-quality saffron for a richer color and aroma.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Persian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: persian pilaf, tomato rice, basmati rice, vegetarian, healthy dinner