Rice Pilaf with Vegetable Spices

A pilaf is a dish in which rice is cooked in a seasoned broth. The proportions couldn’t be simpler: one cup of raw vegetables for every cup of rice. This most comforting recipe makes a great side dish.
Simply choose whichever vegetables are in season, are in your fridge or from the garden. Tomatoes and sweet peppers are favorite additions chez nous.
Ingredients
- 6 Tbsp Ghee or Olive Oil
- ½ tsp Cumin seeds
- ½ cup Celery, diced
- ½ cup Green Peas
- ½ cup Onions, chopped
- ½ cup Carrots, diced
- 1 Bay leaf (West-Indian if possible)
- 2 cups Parboiled Rice
- Juice of one Lime or Lemon
- Salt
- 1 Tbsp Vegetable Spices blend, ground
Method
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1
In a heavy pan, heat the ghee on medium heat. Add the cumin and brown for a few seconds. Add the vegetables, vegetable spices blend and the bay leaf.
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2
Cook until the vegetables become aromatic and slightly wilted (5 to 6 minutes).
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3
Add the rice and cook a few minutes stirring constantly until the rice is infused and golden.
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4
Pour in three cups of water. Add the salt and the lime juice. Mix well and bring to a boil. Cover and reduce the heat on the burner.
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5
Cook for 20 minutes, turn off the burner and let rest 15 minutes before serving.