Introduction

Sela basmati rice pilaf is a delicious and aromatic dish that highlights the unique texture and flavor of Sela basmati rice. This pilaf is enriched with spices, nuts and optional raisins to add a sweet touch. It is a versatile side dish that complements a variety of meat, seafood or vegetarian main courses.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Sela basmati rice
• 4 cups water or chicken stock
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4-5 green cardamom pods
• 4-5 cloves
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds or cashews
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• Fresh coriander or parsley, chopped for garnish

Preparation

Prepare the rice

1. Rinse and soak the rice: Rinse the Sela Basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in cold water for about 30 minutes, then drain well.

Cook the pilaf

2. Heat the oil: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil or ghee over a medium heat.
3. Fry the onions and garlic: Add the chopped onion and fry until golden brown. Add the chopped garlic and fry for a further minute.
4. Add spices: Add the cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves and bay leaf. Fry the spices for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Add the rice and stock: Stir in ground turmeric and ground black pepper. Add the drained Sela Basmati rice and stir well to coat the rice with the oil and spices. Add water or chicken stock and salt. Stir well.

Allow the rice to simmer

6. Cook the rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.

Add the nuts and raisins

7. Toast the nuts: In a small pan, dry roast the sliced almonds or cashews until golden brown. If using raisins, add them at the last minute of roasting.
8. Combine and serve: Once the rice is cooked, gently fluff with a fork. Stir in the roasted nuts and raisins (if using). Transfer the Sela Basmati Rice Pilaf to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh coriander or parsley.

Conclusion

Sela basmati rice pilaf is an aromatic and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. The unique texture of Sela basmati rice combined with the warmth of the spices, the crunch of the nuts and the optional sweetness of the raisins creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. This versatile pilaf is sure to become a favorite side dish in your meal repertoire.