Flavorful Pea and Rice Pilaf

Ingredients

• Basmati rice (1 cup)
• Vegetable broth (2 cups)
• Frozen peas (1 cup)
• Onion (1 medium, finely chopped)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Cumin (1 teaspoon)
• Turmeric (1/2 teaspoon)
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon)
• Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped (for garnish))
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)

Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, which helps achieve fluffy rice.
2. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat, allowing it to warm up for a minute.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the oil, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the rinsed basmati rice, letting it coat with the onion and garlic mixture for about 1-2 minutes, enhancing the flavors.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil, watching closely to prevent overflow.
6. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the rice simmer for approximately 10 minutes.
7. After 10 minutes, add the frozen peas, turmeric, cumin, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
8. Cover the saucepan once more and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the peas are heated through.
9. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the pilaf sit, covered, for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
10. Fluff the rice gently with a fork and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.