Fragrant Rice Pilaf

Ingredients

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron thread, crumbled
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 cup onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons garlic, finely minced
• 4 carrots, diced
• 1 1/2 cups long grain rice
• 3 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2-3/4 cup dried cherries

Directions

1. 1

   Combine cumin, saffron and salt; set aside.

2. 2

   Heat butter and oil in a pot over low heat then add the onions and wilt, stirring for 5 minutes.

3. 3

   Add garlic and carrots; cook 5 minutes more, sprinkling with the spice mixture.

4. 4

   Add the rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring to mix well.

5. 5

   Add the broth and cherries.

6. 6

   Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer and cook, covered, until all the liquid is absorbed, about 20 minutes.

7. 7

   Fluff rice with a fork and serve hot.