Spicy Caribbean Vegetable Pilaf

Looking for a delicious and vibrant dish that will transport you to the sunny beaches of the Caribbean? Look no further than our flavorful Spicy Caribbean Vegetable Pilaf recipe. Packed with a medley of vegetables, aromatic spices, and a kick of heat, this dish is a perfect addition to your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinner or impress guests at a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into how to create this mouthwatering dish!

**Spicy Caribbean Vegetable Pilaf**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 1 ¾ cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 zucchini, diced
– 1 carrot, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– ½ teaspoon turmeric
– ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Rice:**
– Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
– In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

2. **Saute the Aromatics:**
– In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
– Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

3. **Add the Vegetables:**
– Stir in the bell pepper, zucchini, and carrot. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

4. **Seasoning and Spices:**
– Sprinkle the ground cumin, curry powder, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper over the vegetables. Stir well to combine, allowing the spices to toast for about 1 minute.

5. **Combine and Simmer:**
– Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the vegetables and spices. Mix everything together gently to ensure the rice is coated evenly.
– Cover the skillet and let the pilaf simmer over low heat for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Once the pilaf is heated through, remove from heat.
– Serve the Spicy Caribbean Vegetable Pilaf hot, garnished with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness and color.

This Spicy Caribbean Vegetable Pilaf is a wonderful way to introduce some tropical flair to your dining table. The combination of aromatic spices and colorful vegetables creates a dish that is as visually appealing as it is tasty. Whether enjoyed as a standalone meal or as a side dish to complement your favorite protein, this pilaf is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, roll up your sleeves, get your ingredients ready, and dive into the flavors of the Caribbean with this delectable recipe.