Basmati and Wild Rice Pilaf

Basmati and wild rice pilaf with vegetables is a sumptuous, satisfying side dish that can accompany any curry.

Prep Time10

Cook Time30

Total Time40

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: Indian

Keyword: wild rice pilaf

Servings: people

300g / 1½ cup basmati and wild rice mix
2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
1 tbsp grated ginger
2-3 cloves garlic crushed
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp turmeric
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp coriander
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
2 tbsp chopped cilantro (fresh coriander)
500ml / 18oz This is an affiliate link.chicken stock or vegetable stock
120g / 1 cup frozen veg mix (peas, carrots, green beans and corn) or you favorite mix
2 tbsp toasted flaked almonds or chopped cashews

Wash the rice mix until the water is very clear, then soak the rice in water for 30 minutes.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan, then add the ginger paste and garlic and stir fry over low heat for 30 seconds. Add the drained rice and continue frying while stirring for a minute.
Now add the salt, turmeric, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, stir to combine until you can smell the aromatics, then add the stock, frozen vegetables and chopped fresh cilantro, bring to a simmer, then lower the heat and cover with simmer on low heat for 15 minutes. Then take the pan off the heat and let it sit covered for 10 minutes longer.
Remove the lid, fluff up the rice and top with more fresh cilantro and flaked almonds or chopped cashews if desired.

I used a mix of basmati and wild rice. Other types of rice can be used, but it will impact the cooking time. Brown rice, for example, will take longer to cook so check the package instructions and adapt accordingly.
Use ghee if you can find it. It should be easy to locate in larger supermarkets and Asian stores. I will add a more buttery flavour to the rice.
I used a frozen vegetable mix to keep this recipe as quick and simple as possible. My mix included peas, carrots, green beans and corn, but other veg like broccoli, cauliflower or spinach will all work as well.
Make sure to add fresh cilantro/coriander! It both adds flavour and is the perfect garnish.
Chopped nuts are also important, and add to the texture and finish of the dish.