Iraqi Pink Rice Plow Ahmar

Transform your dinner table into a vibrant Middle Eastern feast with Iraqi Pink Rice Plow Ahmar, a stunning twist on traditional pilaf. This aromatic dish owes its beautiful blush hue to rich tomato paste, while a symphony of warm spices like cumin, cardamom, and cinnamon infuses every grain of tender basmati rice with incredible depth of flavor. Balanced with a touch of sugar and a hint of garlic, this delicately spiced rice is both comforting and exotic. Quick to prepare in under 35 minutes, it’s the perfect side dish for grilled meats, stews, or even as a standalone vegetarian delight. Sprinkle fresh parsley for a pop of color and brightness, and let this delightful Iraqi recipe transport you to a world of bold, earthy flavors.

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups Basmati rice
• 3 cups Water
• 3 tablespoons Tomato paste
• 3 tablespoons Vegetable oil
• 2 Garlic clove
• 0.5 teaspoons Ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoons Ground cumin
• 1.5 teaspoons Salt
• 0.25 teaspoons Ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoons Sugar
• 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water several times until the water runs clear, then soak it in cold water for 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the pot, sautéing until fragrant and slightly golden, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 3

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes to enhance its flavors.

Step 4

Add the water, ground cumin, ground cardamom, ground cinnamon, salt, and sugar to the pot. Mix well and bring the liquid to a gentle boil.

Step 5

Once the liquid is boiling, add the soaked and drained basmati rice. Stir gently to combine, making sure the rice is evenly distributed in the liquid.

Step 6

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer undisturbed for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 7

Turn off the heat and let the pot sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and become fluffy.

Step 8

Fluff the rice gently with a fork, and transfer it to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1235.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	899.9

Total Fat 41.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 6.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 25.2g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 3600.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 118.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 4.8g	0%
Total Sugars 10.5g
Protein 17.3g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 145.4mg	0%
Iron 9.5mg	0%
Potassium 726.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 40.8%

Protein: 7.5%

Carbs: 51.7%