Vegan East African Pilau with Coconut Cucumber Salad

Image of a vibrant Vegan East African Pilau on a simple table, with Coconut Cucumber Salad, wooden utensils, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Vegan East African Pilau with Coconut Cucumber Salad

Introduction

Today's robust lunch features a vegan twist on the classic East African Pilau, accompanied by a refreshing Coconut Cucumber Salad. This dish perfectly balances rich, spiced flavors with a cool, crisp salad for a satisfying midday meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed and drained
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 4 cardamom pods, crushed
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup coconut yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon mint, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Heat the coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until the onions are translucent.
  • Stir in the cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, turmeric, and cloves. Cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add the rinsed basmati rice to the pot and stir well to coat with the spices.
  • Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and all the liquid is absorbed.
  • While the rice cooks, prepare the salad by combining the sliced cucumber, coconut yogurt, lemon juice, and mint in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Once the pilau is ready, remove from heat and let it sit covered for about 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork and mix in the chopped cilantro.
  • Serve the pilau hot with the coconut cucumber salad on the side.

Enjoy this hearty, flavorful meal that brings a piece of East Africa to your table. Perfect for a fulfilling lunch, it's sure to delight your taste buds and keep you energized throughout the day.

Nia

Additional Information
NutritionfactsCalories: 350, Fat: 9g, Carbohydrates: 58g, Protein: 8g 
Preparation Time45 minutes 
Allergy InformationContains coconut. Possible allergens include spices like cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom.