Ingredients:
For the Jasmine Green Tea Infusion:
- 1 cup jasmine green tea (using 2 tea bags or 2 tablespoons loose tea)
- 1 1/2 cups hot water
For the Rice Pilaf:
- 1 cup long-grain Basmati rice, rinsed and drained
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds or chopped cashews (optional)
- 1/4 cup raisins or currants (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Brew Jasmine Green Tea:
- Brew jasmine green tea by steeping 2 tea bags or 2 tablespoons of loose tea in hot water for about 3-4 minutes. Allow it to cool slightly, then strain and reserve the tea.
- Prepare Rice:
- Rinse the Basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.
- Infuse Rice with Jasmine Green Tea:
- In a saucepan, heat the vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent.
- Add the rinsed rice to the pan and stir, allowing the rice to toast for 2-3 minutes until it becomes slightly golden.
- Pour in the brewed jasmine green tea, ensuring it covers the rice completely. Season with cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Simmer and Cook:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff the Rice:
- Once the rice is cooked, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and become fluffy.
- Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
- Optional Additions:
- In a separate pan, toast slivered almonds or chopped cashews until golden brown. Add them to the rice along with raisins or currants for added texture and sweetness. Mix gently.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the Jasmine Green Tea Rice Pilaf to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
Serve this fragrant and flavorful Jasmine Green Tea Rice Pilaf as a unique side dish to complement a variety of main courses. Adjust the seasoning and optional additions to suit your taste preferences.
