BASMATI RICE PILAF WITH APRICOTS

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Basmati Rice Pilaf with Apricots image

Here's to the humble chicken breast: No more dowdy sides for you. Rice takes on exotic flare when laced with spices, dried fruits, and nuts.

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Categories     side-dish

Time 30m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 12

1/4 cup chopped dried apricots
2 wide strips lemon zest
2 cups cold water
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon garam masala (an Indian spice blend)
1 medium onion, diced
1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
1 cup basmati rice, lightly rinsed and drained
Freshly ground black pepper
1 bay leaf
1/3 cup fresh mint leaves
1/4 cup toasted unsalted pistachios or cashews

Steps:

  • Put the apricots and lemon zest in the 2 cups of cold water. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the garam masala, and toast, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the onion and 1/4 teaspoon of the salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is tender and translucent, about 6 minutes.
  • Stir in the rice and cook, stirring occasionally, until it begins to brown, about 4 minutes. Stir in the water along with the apricots, lemon zest, the remaining 1 teaspoon salt, and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, wrap a clean dish towel around the saucepan lid, and cover saucepan. Cook for 10 minutes, set aside for 5 minutes undisturbed, then remove lid and fluff with a fork. Mound the pilaf on a serving platter or in a shallow bowl, tear the mint over, and top with the nuts.
  • Game Plan: Toast the nuts while the rice cooks.

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