Castilian-Leonese Style Sweet Rice

Ingredients

In this adaptation of Shirin plov to Castilian-Leonese cuisine, we incorporate the flavors and ingredients commonly found in Spanish cooking. The original dish is transformed into a sweet rice dish by using a combination of aromatic spices like cinnamon, saffron, and cloves. Additionally, we replace the traditional ingredients of Uzbek cuisine with dried apricots, raisins, and almonds, which are commonly used in Spanish cuisine. The result is a unique fusion of flavors that pays homage to both cuisines. We alse have the original recipe for Shirin plov, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) short-grain rice 2 cups (400g) short-grain rice
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 1 cinnamon stick 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 pinch of saffron threads 1 pinch of saffron threads
• 3 cloves 3 cloves
• 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 (60g) almonds, sliced 1/2 cup (60g) almonds, sliced
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley or mint), for garnish Fresh herbs (such as parsley or mint), for garnish
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 68g, 20g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rice, cinnamon stick, saffron threads, and cloves. Stir well.
3. 3.
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
4. 4.
   Remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
5. 5.
   In a separate pan, toast the almonds over medium heat until lightly golden.
6. 6.
   Fluff the rice with a fork and remove the cinnamon stick and cloves.
7. 7.
   Stir in the dried apricots, raisins, and toasted almonds.
8. 8.
   Season with salt to taste.
9. 9.
   Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Make sure to toast the almonds gently over medium heat to bring out their natural flavor and crunchiness.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can substitute half of the vegetable broth with coconut milk.
• Feel free to add a pinch of ground cinnamon for an extra burst of flavor.
• If you prefer a sweeter rice, you can add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup before serving.
• Experiment with different dried fruits like figs or dates for a unique twist.
• Serve the sweet rice warm or at room temperature for the best taste.

Serving advice

Serve Castilian-Leonese Style Sweet Rice as a main dish accompanied by a fresh green salad or as a dessert with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, garnish the dish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and a few extra toasted almonds. Serve it in a colorful ceramic bowl for an authentic touch.