Fruited Rice With Cinnamon
A fragrant, fruity rice dish with almonds and cinnamon, perfect for a quick, flavorful side or light meal that appeals to those craving warm, sweet-spiced flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 1-quart casserole, heat margarine on high for 30 seconds.
- Add sliced almonds and diced onions, then microwave on high for 1 minute, stirring once until onions are tender.
- Add canned chicken broth, diced apricots, and golden raisins, then microwave on high for 2 minutes until rice is heated through.
- Add ground cinnamon, salt, and white pepper, then stir to combine.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, substitute sliced almonds with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether. If you want extra flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of canned. For a touch of sweetness, add a bit more dried fruit, like cranberries or figs. If you have leftover rice, it can also be used in this recipe, making it a perfect way to repurpose it.
Serving Suggestions
This fruited rice pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a well-rounded meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition. It can also be a delightful side dish for a holiday gathering, complementing dishes like a Ketchup And Coke Roast or even a vegetarian main like stuffed peppers.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This will help maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruited Rice With Cinnamon contains roughly 849 calories, with 18g protein, 181g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (237% of the Daily Value), calcium (96% of the Daily Value), and iron (74% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2424mg per serving (105% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but note that it will take longer to cook and may alter the texture slightly. Make sure the brown rice is fully cooked before adding it to the dish. The nutty flavor of brown rice will also complement the fruit and spices beautifully.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute margarine with a plant-based butter or olive oil and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This will keep the dish flavorful while ensuring it fits a vegan diet. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added nutrition.
Can I add more fruits to the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to include other dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or dates. Fresh fruits like diced apples or pears can also be added for a fresh twist. Just keep in mind that adding fresh fruits may change the cooking time slightly, so adjust accordingly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).