Soy-Free Traditional Arabic Rice

Delight in the warm, aromatic flavors of this Soy-Free Traditional Arabic Rice, a timeless dish that offers a perfect balance of spices and textures. Made with fluffy basmati rice, fragrant cumin and cinnamon, and the subtle depth of cardamom and bay leaf, this dish is both comforting and flavorful. Olive oil adds richness, while the optional garnishes of toasted almonds, sweet raisins, and fresh parsley elevate it to a feast-worthy side dish. Free of soy and brimming with classic Middle Eastern flair, this versatile recipe pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or can even stand alone as a simple yet satisfying main. Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe is an excellent choice for those seeking a wholesome, easy-to-make dish that's both healthy and irresistibly delicious.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups Basmati rice
• 3 cups Water
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 medium Yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• 3 Cardamom pods
• 1 Bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 cup Almonds, slivered (optional, for garnish)
• 0.25 cup Raisins (optional, for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water in a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and ensures fluffy rice.

Step 2

In a medium-sized pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground cinnamon, cardamom pods, and bay leaf. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5

Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir to coat the grains with the spice mixture. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 6

Pour in the water and add the salt. Stir briefly, then bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 7

Once the water reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let the rice simmer for 15 minutes. Avoid removing the lid during cooking.

Step 8

After 15 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 9

Remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains.

Step 10

If using garnishes, toast the slivered almonds in a dry pan over medium heat until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle the almonds, raisins, and parsley over the rice before serving.

Step 11

Serve the soy-free traditional Arabic rice warm as a side dish with your favorite main course or enjoy it on its own.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1361.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1116.6

Total Fat 44.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 5.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2414.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 161.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.5g	0%
Total Sugars 35.5g
Protein 24.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 306.3mg	0%
Iron 11.7mg	0%
Potassium 1045.2mg	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: 35.2%

Protein: 8.6%

Carbs: 56.3%