Parsley Cilantro Pilaf

rice   500 gm
coriander leaf paste   50 gm
oregano   10 gm
basil  20 gm
Olive oil   25 gm
Parmesan cheese   20 gm
salt to taste
butter   25 gm
chopped garlic   20 gm
chopped onion     2
chopped celery   1 stick
vegetable stock/ water    1.5 litres


Method

wash the rice well & soak in water for  30 minutes. Heat a heavy pan, pour oil, sauté garlic, onion, celery till the onion is translucent. Now add the coriander paste & sauté for a few minutes.

Add the soaked rice, mix well. Add the stock/ water, cover with a lid. Cook for 10-15 minutes over low heat. When the rice is done, add shredded basil, parsley & cheese & serve hot.

Health Tips

cilantro/ coriander leaves contain antioxidants, which can delay or prevent the spoilage of food seasoned with it. Both the leaves & seeds contain antioxidants, but the leaves have a stronger effect.

Chemicals derived from cilantro have been found to have antibacterial properties. Coriander seeds are used in traditional Indian medicine as a diuretic by boiling equal amounts of coriander & cumin seeds & then cooling & consuming the resulting liquid. It is also regarded as a digestive aid. Cilantro is believed to reduce cholesterol levels in the body