Nutty Warm Rice Dish (Printable)

A comforting blend of basmati rice with toasted nuts and warming spices, perfect as a side or main.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Rice

01 - 1 cup basmati or long-grain rice
02 - 2 cups water
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Nuts & Add-Ins

04 - 1/3 cup slivered almonds
05 - 1/3 cup cashews, roughly chopped
06 - 1/4 cup pistachios, roughly chopped

→ Aromatics & Spices

07 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or ghee
08 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
09 - 1 garlic clove, minced
10 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
11 - 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
12 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

→ Optional Garnishes

13 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
14 - 2 tablespoons golden raisins

# How-To Steps:

01 - Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
02 - Bring 2 cups water and 1/2 teaspoon salt to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until tender. Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes.
03 - Heat butter or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add almonds, cashews, and pistachios. Toast for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly golden. Remove nuts and set aside.
04 - In the same skillet, sauté onion for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and cinnamon; cook 1 minute until aromatic.
05 - Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Add rice to the skillet and gently stir to combine and warm through for 2 minutes.
06 - Return toasted nuts to the skillet and toss gently. Fold in raisins and herbs if using.
07 - Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with additional herbs if desired, and serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It lifts simple rice into something special with toasted nuts and warm spices that feel like a secret handshake.
  • The balance of textures and aromas makes it an unexpected favorite for both weeknights and guests.
02 -
  • Don't skip rinsing the rice — it's the key to fluffy grains that don't stick together.
  • Toasting the nuts just right transforms the dish; watch closely to avoid burning, as the aroma signals they're done.
03 -
  • Use ghee whenever possible for the richest, most authentic flavor profile.
  • Toast nuts right before serving to keep them crisp and vibrant.