Fennel Basmati Rice 
Fennel Basmati Rice
This is a very simple aromatic, nutty and earthy flavored basmati rice. Its appearance is plain and brownish but the taste will leave you wanting more. The fennel seeds is used as the dominant spice; the sweetness of fennel coupled with the nuttiness of a bit of cumin and the earthiness of caraway seeds worked so well together. The onions in the dish was cooked until the edges were slightly brown to bring out some of the sweetness you get from caramelized onions. When cooking the onions, you want to make sure there is enough oil so that the onion bits looks like they are bubbling – this allows them to get the brownish edges.
Basmati rice in it self is nutty and floral in taste so the spices truly complimented it really well. Not only do I love the texture of Basmati rice, but I love that it cooks perfectly every time. I always use less liquid than the package directions and once it comes to a boil, I reduce to a simmer. Works for every recipe, once you get the heat correct – so pay attention to the flame.
I used this recipe as a side dish and there was no leftovers. I hope you will try this recipe and enjoy it as much as we do. Happy Cooking!
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Fennel Basmati Rice
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups basmati rice rinsed thoroughly (4 to 5 rinses until water runs clear)
- 2 1/4 cups chicken bone broth (or chicken broth or vegetable broth)
- 1/2 small onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic finely minced or crushed
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 3/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a medium pot, over medium heat.Note: Try not to skimp on the oil. I used the full 3 tablespoons. But you can certainly do 2 tablespoons. The oil amount will determine how well the onions cook/brown.
- Add the onions. Cook 6 to 7 minutes until the onions are softened and lightly brown around the edges. Stir the onions occassionally.Note: If the onions are browning too quickly, reduce the heat. You don't want to burn or brown them too much.
- Add the fennel and caraway seeds. Stir. Cook 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the garlic, black pepper and cumin. Stir. Cook 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Add the rice. Stir. Add the salt. Turn up the heat to medium high. Stir and allow to cook 2 minutes until you hear crackling sounds.
- Add the chicken broth (or vegetable broth). Stir. Bring to a boil. Cover. Lower the heat and simmer 14 minutes until all liquid is absorbed.
- Turn off the heat. Use a spoon or fork to fluff. Cover and let rest for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Fluff the rice again. Transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with herbs if desired. Serve with your favorite entree. Enjoy.
Notes
Nutrition
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