Sweet And Savory Rice Pilaf
A bright, sweet‑savory rice pilaf with toasted almonds, dried cranberries, and a drizzle of honey, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or holiday side dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan combine 1 ¾ cups water, 2 bouillon cubes, and 2 Tbsp soy sauce.
- Bring to a boil.
- Stir in 2 cups instant rice and ½ cup dried cranberries or diced dried apricots.
- Cover immediately and remove from heat; let stand for 5 minutes.
- Uncover rice and fluff with a fork.
- Stir in ½ cup toasted whole almonds and ¼ cup honey.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using low-sodium soy sauce or replacing it with tamari for a gluten-free option. You can also enhance the dish with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. If you don't have dried cranberries or apricots, try raisins or chopped dates instead. This recipe can be easily doubled for larger gatherings, making it a great side dish alongside main courses like 'Venus De Milo' Minestrone Soup.
Serving Suggestions
This Sweet and Savory Rice Pilaf pairs beautifully with grilled chicken recipes or roasted vegetables. Serve it as a hearty side dish for holiday gatherings or family dinners. For a complete meal, consider adding a protein like grilled chicken or tofu on the side. It also works well alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out, and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. This pilaf can also be served cold as a refreshing salad.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Savory Rice Pilaf contains roughly 937 calories, with 31g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (61% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (56% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1865mg per serving (81% 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 instant rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but adjust the cooking time and liquid according to package instructions, as brown rice typically requires more water and a longer cooking time. This will change the texture, making it less fluffy but more nutritious.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! To make the Sweet and Savory Rice Pilaf vegan, replace the bouillon cubes with vegetable broth and ensure the soy sauce is labeled as vegan. You can also use maple syrup instead of honey for a completely plant-based recipe.
How can I make this a one-pot meal?
To turn this pilaf into a one-pot meal, add cooked chicken or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. This adds protein and boosts the nutritional value while keeping cleanup minimal.
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).