If you’re looking for a delightful side dish that’s not just a staple but also a cherished family favorite, this Instant Pot Fruited Rice Pilaf is sure to win hearts. This recipe incorporates dried fruits and nuts, creating a perfect blend of flavors and textures that elevate any meal. It’s one of those dishes that brings nostalgia and warmth to the dinner table, making it a beloved tradition in many households.
Cooking this rice pilaf in the Instant Pot means you can enjoy the comforting aroma of spices and fruits without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s quick, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying, ideal for busy weeknights or festive gatherings when you want to impress your guests with minimal effort.
A Favorite Tradition: Instant Pot Fruited Rice Pilaf
This Instant Pot Fruited Rice Pilaf features fluffy basmati rice, aromatic spices, and a medley of dried fruits like apricots and raisins. The combination of sweet and savory elements creates a taste sensation that’s both comforting and elegant.
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds or walnuts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add the olive oil or butter and let it melt. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are fragrant and translucent (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the Rice and Spices: Stir in the rinsed basmati rice, ground cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to toast the spices.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the broth, chopped dried apricots, raisins, and nuts to the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Pressure Cook: Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to ‘Manual’ mode on high pressure for 6 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Fluff and Serve: Carefully open the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving. Enjoy this delightful rice pilaf as a side dish or a light meal.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
