Herbed Rice With Currants in Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar
Description:
A tantalizing Persian-inspired recipe crafted by the esteemed Israeli chef Hanoch Bar Shalom, this dish is a delightful union of flavors, textures, and cultural influences. Perfect for those observing Passover, particularly Sephardic Jews, it offers a unique twist on traditional rice dishes, elevating them with the richness of olive oil, the tang of balsamic vinegar, and the sweetness of currants. Chef Bar Shalom recommends preparing a double batch of the currant mixture, not just for this dish, but also as a versatile garnish for salads, meats, and poultry, extending its culinary appeal beyond the confines of this recipe.
Recipe Category: Rice
Keywords: Southwest Asia (Middle East), Asian, Low Protein, Vegan, Low Cholesterol, Kosher, Weeknight, Stove Top
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 505.9 per serving
- Fat Content: 21.3g
- Saturated Fat Content: 2.7g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 10.3mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 73.8g
- Fiber Content: 3.6g
- Sugar Content: 17.8g
- Protein Content: 6.6g
- Servings: 6
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Currants |
| 1 | Extra virgin olive oil |
| 1/4 | Thyme |
| 2 | Garlic |
| 2 | Pepper |
| – | Pine nuts |
| 1/4 | Olive oil |
| 1/2 | Onion |
| 1 | Rice |
| 3 | Water |
| 2 | Cinnamon |
| 3 | Salt |
| 1/4 | Pepper |
| – | Dill |
| – | Mint |
| – | Italian parsley |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Currant Mixture:
- In a bowl, combine the currants, balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, thyme, and garlic.
- Season generously with pepper.
- Allow the mixture to marinate for at least 4 hours before serving, allowing the flavors to meld and develop.
-
Toast the Pine Nuts:
- In a small skillet, heat 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil over low heat.
- Add the pine nuts and toast until lightly browned, approximately 2 minutes.
- Be vigilant and watch them closely to prevent burning.
-
Prepare the Rice:
- In a separate large skillet, cook the onions in olive oil until they turn golden brown, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking.
-
Cook the Rice:
- Add the rice to the skillet with the onions and continue cooking, stirring continuously for an additional minute to toast the rice grains.
-
Add the Liquid and Seasonings:
- Pour in the water and season the mixture with salt, pepper, and cinnamon, infusing the rice with aromatic and savory notes.
-
Simmer and Steam:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet, allowing the rice to simmer and absorb the liquid for approximately 20 minutes.
-
Rest and Fluff:
- Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit undisturbed for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the rice to steam gently.
-
Final Assembly:
- Using a fork, gently stir in the toasted pine nuts, along with any remaining ingredients such as dill, mint, and Italian parsley, adding freshness and vibrancy to the dish.
-
Serve and Garnish:
- Transfer the herbed rice to a serving bowl or platter, presenting it with pride.
- Garnish the dish with the seasoned currants, adding a pop of color, sweetness, and texture that perfectly complements the savory rice.
-
Enjoy:
- Delight in the symphony of flavors and textures as you savor each mouthful of this exquisite dish, savoring the fusion of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences in every bite.
Review:
With an aggregated rating of 5 stars based on 4 reviews, this recipe has garnered praise for its tantalizing flavors, easy preparation, and cultural authenticity. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dish or paired with your favorite entrees, this herbed rice with currants in olive oil and balsamic vinegar is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire. Bon appétit! 🍽️🌿
