RECIPE

Cumin-Scented White Rice

  • ACTIVE: 10 MIN
  • TOTAL TIME: 40 MIN
  • SERVINGS: 10

For such a simple dish, this fragrant white rice is ridiculously good. Stirred in a thin layer of pork fat and simmered with cumin seeds and bay leaves, the grains take on an alluring smoky-sweet flavor and a nutty texture. Serve with either chili or mole.

  • ACTIVE: 10 MIN
  • TOTAL TIME: 40 MIN
  • SERVINGS: 10
  • FAST
  • HEALTHY

Ingredients

  • Ingredients
    1. 3 tablespoons lard or vegetable shortening
    2. 1 garlic clove, minced
    3. 1/2 small onion, diced
    4. 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
    5. 2 bay leaves
    6. 2 cups long-grain white rice
    7. 2 1/2 cups water
    8. 1 teaspoon salt

Directions

  1. Heat the lard in a saucepan. Add the garlic and onion and cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the cumin and bay leaves and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add the rice, stirring to coat with the lard. Add the water and salt and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook over low heat for 18 minutes. Remove from the heat and let stand, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve.