rice with almonds recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
rice with almonds recipe
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The Best rice with almonds recipe

I am so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – rice with almonds. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours too. The recipe originated from my grandmother, who learned it from her mother, a skilled cook from the Middle East.

The combination of fluffy rice and crunchy almonds is simply irresistible, and it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a quick weeknight dinner. The key to making this recipe is to use the right type of rice – I prefer basmati or jasmine. You want to choose a rice that’s aromatic and has a slightly sticky texture.

Also, be sure to toast the almonds in a pan until they’re lightly browned and fragrant – this brings out their nutty flavor. Finally, don’t overcook the rice; you want it to retain its fluffy texture. One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is.

You can serve it as a side dish, add some protein like chicken or fish on top, or even turn it into a main course by adding some vegetables like peas or carrots. My kids love helping me make this recipe because it’s so easy to customize. We often have fun adding different toppings or mix-ins to make it more exciting.

As for me, I love this recipe because it’s so easy to prepare ahead of time. Simply cook the rice and toast the almonds, then store them in separate containers until you’re ready to serve. It’s perfect for busy families like mine who need meals that are quick and convenient but still delicious.

Rice with Almonds

Rice with Almonds

4.6 from 1820 votes

A fragrant and nutty side dish where fluffy rice is toasted with slivered almonds and simmered in broth. The almonds add a delightful crunch and rich flavor that complements the tender rice.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 310 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Rice

1 cup long-grain white rice
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/3 cup slivered almonds
2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2Drain well and set aside.
3Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
4Add the slivered almonds and cook, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant, about 2 to 3 minutes.
5Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the butter and almonds.
6Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the rice becomes slightly translucent at the edges.
7Pour in the broth, add the salt and pepper, and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
8Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
9Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
10Fluff the rice with a fork, stir in the chopped parsley if using, and serve warm.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan with lid
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 310 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 15mg🧂Sodium: 480mg🌾Total Carbs: 44g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 7g

📝Notes

For a richer flavor, you can toast the almonds in a dry skillet before adding the butter. Use any broth you prefer, but low-sodium helps control saltiness.

Watch Video Of How Rice with Almonds Works

This rice with almonds recipe is always a good idea for any occasion, whether it is a casual dinner or a holiday gathering. It comes together quickly, uses simple ingredients, and pairs well with so many main dishes.

I love that I can make it ahead of time and it still tastes great the next day. For storage, keep the rice in a sealed container in the fridge for up to four days.

To reheat, add a tablespoon of water and microwave for a minute or two, or warm it in a skillet over low heat. If you want to serve it again with crunchy almonds, toast a fresh batch and stir them in just before serving.

This recipe also works well for meal prep, and you can double it easily for a crowd. It is a reliable side dish that never lets me down.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Rice with Almonds

Q: What type of rice is best for this recipe?

I recommend using basmati or jasmine rice for this recipe. These types of rice are aromatic and have a slightly sticky texture that pairs perfectly with the crunchy almonds.

Q: Can I use regular old-fashioned oats instead of almonds?

No, you can’t substitute regular oats for almonds in this recipe. Almonds add a rich, nutty flavor that complements the rice beautifully. If you want to try something different, you could experiment with other nuts like walnuts or pecans.

Q: How do I toast the almonds?

To toast the almonds, simply heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat and add 1/2 cup of sliced almonds. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they’re lightly browned and fragrant.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this recipe ahead of time by cooking the rice and toasting the almonds separately. Store them in separate containers until you’re ready to serve.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as long as you choose vegetarian protein sources like tofu or tempeh to add on top.

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