Floribbean Spiced Rice with Dried Fruits and Nuts

Ingredients

In this Floribbean adaptation, we incorporate the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean by using spices like cumin, turmeric, and paprika. Additionally, we introduce tropical dried fruits such as pineapple to add a unique sweetness to the dish. The use of toasted almonds and cashews provides a delightful crunch, enhancing the overall texture of the rice. We alse have the original recipe for Ma'jun palov, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) long-grain rice 2 cups (400g) long-grain rice
• 3 cups (710ml) vegetable broth 3 cups (710ml) vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup (75g) dried apricots, chopped 1/2 cup (75g) dried apricots, chopped
• 1/2 cup (80g) raisins 1/2 cup (80g) raisins
• 1/2 cup (75g) dried pineapple, chopped 1/2 cup (75g) dried pineapple, chopped
• 1/2 cup (60g) toasted almonds, chopped 1/2 cup (60g) toasted almonds, chopped
• 1/2 cup (60g) toasted cashews, chopped 1/2 cup (60g) toasted cashews, chopped
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 68g, 20g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the cumin, turmeric, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices.
4. 4.
   Add the rice to the pot and stir to combine with the spices. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. 5.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
6. 6.
   Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
7. 7.
   Fluff the rice with a fork, then gently fold in the dried apricots, raisins, and dried pineapple.
8. 8.
   Transfer the rice to a serving dish and sprinkle the toasted almonds and cashews on top. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dried apricots — Soak the dried apricots in warm water for 10 minutes before chopping them. This will help soften them and make them easier to incorporate into the rice.
• Toasted almonds and cashews — To toast the nuts, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow them to cool before chopping and adding to the rice.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to the rice before serving.
• Customize the dried fruits and nuts according to your preference. Try using dried mango, cranberries, or macadamia nuts for a different twist.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped chili pepper to the rice while cooking.
• Make sure to fluff the rice gently with a fork to avoid crushing the grains and maintain a light and fluffy texture.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to refresh the rice.

Serving advice

Serve the Floribbean Spiced Rice with Dried Fruits and Nuts as a main dish accompanied by a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables. It can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled fish or chicken for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, transfer the rice to a large serving platter and garnish with sprigs of fresh cilantro. The vibrant colors of the dried fruits and nuts will create an eye-catching display, making it an inviting centerpiece for any table.