African-inspired Spiced Rice with Mixed Nuts and Dried Fruits

Ingredients

In this African adaptation, the traditional Iranian ingredients like saffron and barberries are replaced with African spices such as cumin, coriander, and paprika. Additionally, mixed nuts like peanuts and cashews are used instead of almonds, and dried fruits like raisins and apricots are added for a touch of sweetness. We alse have the original recipe for Morasa polo, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) long-grain rice 2 cups (400g) long-grain rice
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 cup (75g) mixed nuts (peanuts, cashews, etc.) 1/2 cup (75g) mixed nuts (peanuts, cashews, etc.)
• 1/2 cup (75g) dried fruits (raisins, apricots, etc.) 1/2 cup (75g) dried fruits (raisins, apricots, etc.)
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 54g, 12g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until golden brown.
3. 3.
   Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, and turmeric 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 cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
6. 6.
   While the rice is cooking, heat a small pan over medium heat. Add the mixed nuts and toast them until lightly golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
7. 7.
   Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork. Gently fold in the toasted nuts and dried fruits. Season with salt to taste.
8. 8.
   Transfer the spiced rice to a serving dish and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
9. 9.
   Serve hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Mixed nuts — Make sure to toast the nuts lightly to enhance their flavor and crunchiness.
• Dried fruits — If the dried fruits are too dry or tough, you can soak them in warm water for a few minutes to soften them before adding to the rice.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the rice while cooking.
• Feel free to customize the dried fruits and nuts according to your preference. You can use a combination of raisins, cranberries, almonds, or any other nuts you enjoy.
• To make the dish more colorful, you can add some diced bell peppers or carrots to the rice while sautéing the onions and garlic.

Serving advice

This African-inspired spiced rice pairs well with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Serve it as a main course or as a side dish at your next gathering for a delightful culinary experience.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, you can sprinkle some additional toasted nuts and dried fruits on top of the rice before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a pop of color.