Pilau Rice

Pilau Rice

                     

Servings:   6-8      Prep Time: 15 minutes    Cooking Time: 30 minutes                

               

Pilau rice is a fantastic dish, whether on the side or the main attraction. 

Ingredients

3 cups Basmati Rice

4 tablespoons Sunflower Oil or 2 Ounces Butter

3 teaspoons Cumin Seeds

3 Whole Cloves (optional)

2 Bay Leaves

1 large Onion, peeled and sliced

1 Green Chilli, chopped

1 teaspoon Turmeric (optional)

2 teaspoons Salt

5 and ½ cups Water

2 Ounces Almonds flaked or slivered (optional)

Equipment:  Pan with lid

Preparation

Wash the rice until its water runs clear. Soak in plenty of water for at least ½ hour before cooking.

Instructions

1. Heat the oil or butter in a large saucepan. Add the cumin seeds and fry until they start to pop.  Add the bay leaves and cloves.
   
2. Add the sliced onion, green chilli and salt. Fry the onions until they are light brown.
   
3. If using Turmeric add now.  Drain the soaking rice and add to the pan, stir for 2-3 minutes.
   
4.  Add 5 and 1/2 cups water and bring to the boil.  Leave on a medium heat until the rice has soaked up all the water. 
   
5.  Then, place on the lowest heat. Cover and cook the rice for 20 minutes.
   
6.  Uncover and gently turn the rice over with a fork.  Check that it is cooked, Garnish with the almond flakes and coriander. 
   
7. Serve with a curry or just have it with yoghurt chutney.