Jeweled Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Jeweled Rice recipe is a flavorful explosion of textures and vibrant colors. The sweet apricots, figs, and dried cherries, combined with the savory spices and crunchy pistachios, create a delicious contrast. The addition of fresh orange or lemon zest brightens the flavors, making this dish not only a treat for the taste buds but also visually appealing with its jewel-like fruits and pomegranate seeds. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it an ideal option for both special occasions and casual dinners.

Ingredients

• 1 ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• ¼ teaspoon cumin
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, divided, plus 1 teaspoon
• 1 large onion, diced small
• 10 dried apricots, quartered
• 6 dried figs, quartered
• ¼ cup dried cherries or prunes
• ¼ cup pistachios or pumpkin seeds
• 1 cup long-grain rice (Jasmine rice or Basmati rice)
• 1 ⅓ cups of water or vegetable broth
• 1 ½ teaspoon fresh orange zest or lemon zest
• 1 cup pomegranate seeds

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, mix together salt, paprika, turmeric, cumin, and black pepper. Set aside.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and golden, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the spice mixture to the onions and stir for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and become fragrant.
4. Stir in the dried apricots, figs, cherries (or prunes), and pistachios (or pumpkin seeds). Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the fruits to soften and the nuts to toast slightly.
5. Add the rice to the pot, stirring to coat it in the spices and oil.
6. Pour in the water or vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
7. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the orange or lemon zest.
8. Drizzle the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil over the rice and top with fresh pomegranate seeds before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Rice Type: You can experiment with different types of rice such as Basmati, Jasmine, or even wild rice for a different texture and flavor.
• Nuts and Seeds: If you don’t have pistachios, try using almonds, cashews, or sunflower seeds for a different crunch.
• Dried Fruits: Feel free to mix and match the dried fruits. Dried mango or dates could make a great substitute for apricots or figs.
• Herbs: Add fresh herbs like parsley, mint, or cilantro for an additional layer of freshness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Jeweled Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, microwave the rice for 1-2 minutes, or warm it on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I make Jeweled Rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it when ready to serve.

2. What kind of rice should I use for Jeweled Rice?

Long-grain rice works best for this recipe. Jasmine or Basmati rice are great options, but you can also use other types of rice depending on your preference.

3. Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried fruits?

Dried fruits are a key component of this dish, adding a concentrated sweetness and chewy texture. Fresh fruits could alter the flavor and texture of the dish, so it’s best to stick with dried apricots, figs, and cherries for the best result.

4. How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan, but if you’d like to add more protein, consider topping it with chickpeas or adding more nuts for crunch.

5. Can I substitute the pomegranate seeds?

Yes, if you don’t have pomegranate seeds, you can use dried cranberries, raisins, or even fresh berries for a burst of color and sweetness.

6. Is Jeweled Rice gluten-free?

Yes, this Jeweled Rice recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any gluten-containing ingredients.

7. Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, you can add grilled chicken, lamb, or even tofu to turn Jeweled Rice into a complete meal. It pairs well with many types of protein.

8. How do I get the rice fluffy?

Make sure to use the correct ratio of water to rice and allow the rice to steam properly under a lid. Don’t lift the lid during cooking to ensure the rice stays fluffy.

9. Can I use a rice cooker to make Jeweled Rice?

Yes, you can use a rice cooker. Just follow the rice-to-liquid ratio recommended by your rice cooker, and add the spices and fruits in after the rice is cooked.

10. Can I make Jeweled Rice spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red chili flakes, or even a diced fresh chili to the rice along with the spices.

Conclusion

Jeweled Rice is a delicious and vibrant dish that brings together sweet, savory, and crunchy elements in every bite. Perfect for holidays, special gatherings, or as a side to a weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress with its beautiful colors and delightful flavors. With endless variations and easy preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and time again.

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