Enhanced Apricot Cobbler Pilaf

Ingredients

• Butter (2 tablespoons)
• Onion (1 medium, chopped)
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
• Cumin (1 teaspoon)
• Turmeric (1/2 teaspoon)
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon, or to taste)
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon, or to taste)
• Basmati rice (1 cup, rinsed)
• Dried apricots (1 cup, chopped)
• Vegetable broth (2 cups)
• Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped)
• Slivered almonds (1/4 cup, toasted)

Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, salt, and black pepper, allowing the spices to bloom for about 1 minute.
4. Add the rinsed basmati rice and chopped dried apricots to the saucepan, stirring to coat the rice and apricots thoroughly with the spice mixture.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
7. After cooking, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Fluff the rice gently with a fork and stir in the toasted slivered almonds and chopped parsley.
9. Serve the apricot cobbler pilaf warm, either as a hearty main dish or a delightful side to grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.