Savory Meat and Rice Pilaf

Transform your dinner table with this hearty and aromatic Savory Meat and Rice Pilaf, a one-pot wonder that combines tender bites of your choice of chicken, beef, or lamb with fluffy basmati rice infused with warm spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. This comforting dish is elevated by the rich flavors of a cinnamon stick and bay leaf simmering in savory chicken or beef broth, creating a perfectly balanced and satisfying meal. With just 15 minutes of prep and simple cooking techniques, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or an impressive weekend dinner. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and brightness, and serve it alongside a crisp salad or warm naan bread for the ultimate feast.

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 1 pound boneless meat (chicken, beef, or lamb)
• 1 large onion
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 0.5 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups chicken or beef broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 cup fresh parsley

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in warm water for 15 minutes, then drain well.

Step 2

Cut the meat into bite-sized cubes. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.

Step 3

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5

Add the meat to the pot. Season with salt and black pepper, and cook until the meat is browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 6

Pour the broth into the pot and bring it to a boil. Stir in the soaked and drained rice. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, reduce the heat to low, and let simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and all liquid is absorbed.

Step 7

Remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and become fluffy.

Step 8

Gently fluff the rice with a fork, remove the cinnamon stick and bay leaf, and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2109.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1891.0

Total Fat 72.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 22.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.4g
Cholesterol 451.4mg	0%
Sodium 6309.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 136.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 8.4g	0%
Total Sugars 12.1g
Protein 165.8g	0%

Vitamin D 27.2IU	0%
Calcium 287.6mg	0%
Iron 16.9mg	0%
Potassium 2086.9mg	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: 35.1%

Protein: 35.7%

Carbs: 29.3%