Persian Broccoli Rice Recipe

Hello and welcome to Rice Cookers 101! Today, I will be sharing a delicious recipe for Persian broccoli rice. This dish is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional rice, incorporating the goodness of broccoli and aromatic Persian spices. It is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed as a side dish or a main meal. So let’s get started and impress your taste buds with this wonderful recipe! We’ve made this persian broccoli rice recipe easy to follow 👨‍🍳. If you’re looking for our favorite rice cookers to make this recipe, check out our list of top rice cookers here.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 head broccoli, cut into small florets
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup slivered almonds

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the rice, turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, salt, and black pepper to the pot and stir to combine everything together.
4. Add the water to the pot and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
5. While the rice is cooking, steam the broccoli florets for 3-5 minutes until they are tender but still firm.
6. After the 15 minutes are up, turn off the heat on the pot and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork and add the steamed broccoli, raisins, and slivered almonds. Gently stir to combine everything together.
8. Your Persian Broccoli Rice is now ready to serve!

How long does persian broccoli rice last in the fridge?

Persian broccoli rice can be stored in the fridge after cooking for up to 4-5 days if stored properly. It is important to let the rice cool down to room temperature for about 1-2 hours before storing it in an airtight container or a covered bowl to prevent any bacteria growth. It is also recommended to store the rice in the back of the fridge where it is the coldest and avoid storing it in the fridge door as the temperature is not consistent. Reheating the rice can be done in a microwave or on the stove with a bit of water or oil to keep it moist. It is important to check for any signs of spoilage or bad odor before consuming the stored rice.

Low calorie persian broccoli rice recipe substitutions

To make this Persian Broccoli Rice recipe lower in calories, you could substitute brown rice for white rice to add more fiber and decrease the glycemic index. You could also replace olive oil with cooking spray or water to cut down on calories. Instead of using raisins and almonds, you could use diced carrots and roasted chickpeas to add flavor and nutrients while reducing the calorie count. Finally, you could reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe or use a salt substitute to decrease sodium levels. By making these substitutions, you can create a healthier, lower calorie version of the recipe without sacrificing flavor.

What to serve with a persian broccoli rice?

Persian broccoli rice is a flavorful and hearty dish that can be a stand-alone meal, but can also be paired with some sides to make it more complete. One option is to serve it with some grilled chicken or lamb for added protein. A cool and refreshing cucumber and tomato salad can also complement the warm and savory flavors of the rice. Roasted or sautéed vegetables like sweet potatoes or zucchini can provide some added texture and nutrition to the meal. A dollop of plain Greek yogurt on top can also add some creaminess and tanginess to the dish.

Whats the best sauce for a persian broccoli rice?

One of the best sauces for Persian broccoli rice is green tahini sauce. This sauce is made from tahini paste, garlic, lemon juice, water and fresh herbs such as parsley and cilantro. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor pairs well with the nutty and slightly sweet taste of the broccoli rice. The color of the sauce also adds a vibrant pop to the dish, making it a feast for both your taste buds and eyes. To make the green tahini sauce, simply blend all the ingredients together until smooth. Drizzle it generously over the broccoli rice, or use it as a dipping sauce.

Persian broccoli rice health benefits

Persian broccoli rice is a healthy dish as it contains a variety of nutrients. Broccoli is a rich source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and is known to promote healthy digestion, reduce inflammation, and support the immune system. The brown rice used in the dish provides complex carbohydrates that provide sustained energy and maintains healthy blood sugar levels. Additionally, the spices used in Persian cuisine, such as turmeric and saffron, have antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, making this dish very healthy. Overall, Persian broccoli rice is a nutritious and delicious way to enjoy a healthy meal.