Apricot Almond Pilaf

A sumptuous but easy Persian-inspired dish. Rosewater can be found in Middle Eastern groceries and in many large supermarkets. The carrot, saffron, and apricots make for a beautiful gold color. Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom along with the saffron, if desired.

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 45 mins
• Total Time: 60 mins
• Calories: 289 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup slivered almonds
• 1 ⅞ cups water
• 1 small carrot, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon rose water
• 1 cup basmati rice
• ¼ teaspoon saffron threads, crushed
• ¼ cup dried apricots, diced

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat; cook and stir onion and carrot until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in basmati rice and salt; cook and stir until rice is slightly opaque, about 3 minutes.

Step 2

Pour in water; stir to combine. Mix in saffron threads, rose water, apricots, and almonds; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until rice has absorbed the liquid, about 20 minutes. Remove from heat and allow pilaf to stand covered for 10 more minutes. Stir before serving.