Fragrant and delicious, this rice dish is packed with the goodness of chickpeas and cranberry. The sweetness from caramelized onions, tartness from cranberries, and the robust flavor from chickpeas make this Chickpea Cranberry Rice Pilaf a wonderful main meal or side dish to serve. It is filling and hearty. I love to add different types of lentils, vegetables, and nuts to my rice. Not only do they make rice more nutritional, but they also enhance the taste. Chickpeas and cranberries complement each other to create a wonderful, fragrant pot of deliciousness.
What is Pilaf?
Pilaf /Pilau/Pulao is a cooking method where rice is slowly roasted in oil to give it a nutty taste. In addition, this method provides a depth of flavors to this dish. Growing up, I have seen my mom making different Pilaf at times. Saffron Rice was one of them, and it was yummy.
What Ingredients Are Used in Making This?
Basmati Rice- I love to use basmati rice; however, you can use brown rice for making this. The flavor would be spot on, although that will take a little longer. Chickpeas- I have used soaked and boiled raw chickpeas. However, canned chickpeas can be used easily. Cranberries- Dried Cranberries are used in this recipe. Onions- I have used caramelized red onions for making this pilaf. However, you can use any onion. Oil- You can use ghee /oil. Cinnamon Bay leaf Cumin Seeds Turmeric Powder Salt Cilantro Leaves Red Chilli Powder
What Can You Serve With This Pilaf?
It goes well with any type of veg, non-veg, or lentil curry. I like to serve this pilaf with raita /yogurt dip as well. You can try these recipes as well- Dum Aloo/Dum Alu Dal Palak/Lentil Soup with spinach Whole Masoor Dal/Brown Lentil Badami Paneer/Paneer in Creamy Almond Curry.
Can You Make this Pilaf on a Stovetop?
Absolutely! Here, I am sharing the methods for Instant Pot and stovetop cooking. Both these methods will give you the perfect rice.
Can You Freeze this Pilaf?
Yes! Let it come to room temperature first. Then, store it in a freezer-safe container and store. Simply serve it after heating it in the microwave.
