This Indian-flavored vegetarian dinner is a one-pot meal. A pilaf is typically a rice dish that is cooked for about 20 minutes in stock with spices, vegetables and meat. For this quick dinner, I've shortened the time and work using microwaveable brown rice.
Toasted cashews add extra crunch and flavor. The recipe calls for green beans and carrots, but you can use any vegetables you have on hand or even frozen ones. Use this recipe as a blueprint for amounts and timing.
HELPFUL HINT
* Natural or raw walnuts or pecans can be used instead of cashews.
SHOPPING LIST
* To buy: 1 small package raw or natural cashews, 1 package green beans, 1 bunch carrots, 1 jar minced garlic, 1 bottle ground turmeric, 1 bottle cayenne, 1 bottle ground cinnamon, 1 package raisins, 1 package microwaveable brown rice and 1 carton vegetable broth.
* Staples: olive oil, onion, salt.
Cashew and Vegetable Pilaf
1/2 cup raw or natural cashews
2 cups green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 package microwave brown rice to make 1 1/2 cups cooked
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup sliced onion
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
Pinch cayenne
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup raisins
1 cup vegetable broth
Salt
Toast cashews in a toaster oven or under the broiler for 1 minute or until golden. Watch to see they do not burn. Add green beans and carrots to a microwave-safe bowl, and microwave on high 2 minutes. Microwave brown rice according to package instructions, and measure 1 1/2 cups. Save any remaining rice for another meal. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, and saute 3 minutes. Add the garlic, turmeric, cayenne, cinnamon, raisins, green beans, carrots and chicken. Stir to combine ingredients. Add the rice and vegetable broth. Cook to absorb the liquid, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the cashews. Add salt to taste. Mix well.
Yield: 2 servings.
Per serving: 594 calories (37 percent from fat), 24.7 grams fat (4.6 grams saturated, 13.2 grams monounsaturated), no cholesterol, 14.2 grams protein, 86.9 grams carbohydrates, 10.0 grams fiber, 163 milligrams sodium.
- Recipe by Linda Gassenheimer
Linda Gassenheimer is the author of over 30 cookbooks, including her newest, "The 12-Week Diabetes Cookbook." Email her at Linda@DinnerInMinutes.com.