Rice with Dried Fruits and Nuts

Makes 4-6 servings as a side dish.

This recipe is an adaptation of a Middle Eastern fragrant rice dish with a touch of sweet and sour taste. The rice pairs well with poultry and meat.  

INGREDIENTS

SPICES

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• ¼ teaspoon cumin

• 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup Jasmine white rice
• 1generous cup water
• 8 dried apricot halves, cut into thin strips
• 1/3 cup dried cherries.
• ½ cup pistachios, toasted
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Kosher salt

PREPARATION

1. In a small dish, combine the spices and set aside.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a medium saucepan with a cover. Add the onion and sauté covered, over low heat, until onion is soft, about 7 minutes.
3. Add the spices and the rice. Stir until well coated.  Add the water, bring to a boil over high heat, lower the heat and simmer covered for 15- 20 minutes. The rice should be soft and the water absorbed (if the rice is not soft and the water is absorbed, add a tablespoon or two of hot water).
4. In the meantime, in a small skillet heat the remaining 2 tablespoons oil, add the dried fruit and the nuts and sauté over very low heat for 2 minutes.
5. When the rice is ready add the fruits, nuts, and lemon zest. Combine well and season to taste with salt.