Ingredients

1 cup basmati rice
1 cup frozen black-eyed peas
1 cup water
16 ounces water
1 medium onion , chopped
3 garlic cloves , minced
2 tablespoons raisins ( optional )
1 chicken bouillon cubes or 1 vegetable bouillon cube
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
5 cardamom pods , seeds removed from the pods and crushed
3 -5 tablespoons cooking oil
Anina's Kenyan Pilau is a fragrant and hearty dish that originated in Kenya. It features a unique blend of aromatics such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves that are added to the rice during the cooking process. The black-eyed peas add texture and flavor to the dish, and the raisins compliment the spices beautifully. It is a dish that is popular in East African countries and is often served at special occasions or as a comforting meal on a lazy evening. It is simple to make and can be enjoyed with a side salad or some steamed vegetables.

Instructions

1.Rinse the rice and black-eyed peas under cold running water. Soak them both in 1 cup of water for at least 30 minutes.
2.Meanwhile, in a large pot over medium heat, sauté the onions and garlic in oil until golden brown.
3.Add the chicken bouillon cube, salt, ground cloves, cinnamon, cumin, and crushed cardamom. Combine, sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
4.Add the soaked rice and black-eyed peas to the pot. Add 16 ounces of water. Mix well and bring to a boil.
5.Lower the heat to its lowest setting, cover the pot tightly with a lid and cook for 20 minutes.
6.Remove from heat, let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff the rice and peas using a serving fork. Serve hot with optional raisins sprinkled on top.

PROS

Anina’s Kenyan Pilau is a dish that is packed with flavors and spices that provide a unique and delicious taste.
It is easy to prepare, and its ingredients are readily available in most supermarkets.
Additionally, it is highly customizable and can be modified to suit individual preferences.

CONS

Depending on the amount of oil used, Anina’s Kenyan Pilau can be high in calories and fat.
It may also have a higher sodium content than other dishes due to the use of bouillon cubes.
The dish also requires a bit of patience during the cooking process.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This dish is nutrient-dense and contains several essential minerals such as potassium and iron. The use of spices such as cloves and cinnamon has also been linked to regulating blood sugar levels, aiding digestion, and reducing inflammation in the body. Black-eyed peas are a great source of fiber, which helps to keep the digestive system healthy.

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