Ingredients

3 tablespoons vegetable oil
5 carrot , julienned
1 teaspoon white sugar
1/2 cup sultana raisins
4 cups uncooked basmati rice
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 tablespoon white sugar
1 cup water
1 pinch saffron ( optional )
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Qabali is a popular delicacy known worldwide and Afghani cuisine is known for its unique flavor. Qabali is a flavorful rice dish that consists of basmati rice, sultanas, julienned carrots, aromatic spices, and other ingredients as per choice. Basmati is a delicious and aromatic rice that cooks well and has a unique taste when mixed with other ingredients. The addition of caramelized carrots and raisins adds a sweet punch to this famous dish making it a tasty yet healthy choice.

Instructions

1.Rinse and soak rice in cold water for 30 minutes.
2.Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add julienned carrots and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Cook the carrots, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and lightly browned – about 10 minutes. Remove the cooked carrots from the pot.
3.In the same pot, add 1/2 cup of vegetable oil and the remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar over medium heat. Stir together and cook for 1-2 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat and let cool for about 5 minutes.
4.Drain the rice and add it to the cooled oil mixture in the pot. Put back the pot to heat, adding 1 cup of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until rice is tender and water is absorbed.
5.Add in the raisins, cooked carrots, and whole spices (saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, black pepper, and cumin). Gently mix everything together, and cover the pot for another 10 minutes. Fluff the rice and serve hot or warm.

PROS

Qabali is a delightful and flavor-packed rice dish that is loved by many.

It is a versatile side dish that complements well with grilled meats and vegetables.

It’s a great source of carbohydrates.

CONS

Contains medium to high amount of oil, depending on the recipe and cooking style.

Can be high in calories depending on the portion size consumed and filling ingredients added.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Qabali rice has several health benefits – it contains vitamins and essential minerals that help strengthen bones and sustain a healthy nervous system. Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, while raisins provide high levels of antioxidants and can improve blood sugar levels. The blend of spices like cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, black pepper, and saffron are known to have medicinal properties like reducing inflammation, aiding digestion amongst others.

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