Riz aux Légumes Parfumes
A fragrant and flavorful rice dish cooked with a medley of vegetables and aromatic spices, a staple accompaniment in Comorian meals.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Basmati rice(rinsed)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 1 inch Fresh ginger(peeled and grated)
- 1.5 cups Mixed vegetables(frozen or fresh (e.g., peas, carrots, green beans, corn))
- 2 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 0.5 tsp Cumin powder
- 1 small Cinnamon stick
- 1 leaf Bay leaf
- 3.5 cups Water or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro or parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the mixed vegetables and chopped tomatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are slightly tender.
- 4
Add the rinsed basmati rice, turmeric, cumin, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir well to coat the rice and vegetables with the spices.
- 5
Pour in the water or vegetable broth. Add salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- 6
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Avoid lifting the lid during this time.
- 7
Remove the pot from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5-10 minutes. Remove the cinnamon stick and bay leaf.
- 8
Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley and serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the rice is thoroughly rinsed to remove excess starch for a fluffier texture.
- ✓If using fresh vegetables, cut them into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- ✓Adjust the amount of spices to your personal preference.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of saffron for a more vibrant color and aroma.
- Include other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or sweet potatoes.
- For a richer flavor, replace some of the water with coconut milk.