This hearty Moroccan-style vegetable rice skillet is a vibrant fusion of rice pilaf and tagine, combining the fragrance of basmati rice with warm spices like cinnamon, turmeric, and cumin.
Packed with colorful vegetables like peas, carrots, and bell pepper, and infused with golden saffron, it's a deeply flavorful one-pot meal that’s both comforting and wholesome.
Perfect as a satisfying meatless main or a bold, flavorful side to grilled meats or tagines, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining.
With its vibrant presentation and nourishing ingredients, it celebrates the best of plant-based eating, global grain bowls, and modern one-pan cooking.
⦁ 2 cups long-grain rice
⦁ 2 tbsp butter
⦁ 2 tbsp olive oil
⦁ 1 onion, chopped
⦁ 2 garlic cloves, chopped
⦁ 1–2 cinnamon sticks
⦁ ½ tsp salt (to taste)
⦁ ½ tsp ground ginger
⦁ ¼ cup peas (fresh or frozen)
⦁ 1 red bell pepper, chopped
⦁ 1 carrot, chopped
⦁ 4½ cups chicken or vegetable stock
⦁ ¼ tsp saffron threads, crushed
⦁ ½ tsp white pepper
⦁ ½ tsp cumin
⦁ ½ tsp turmeric
⦁ ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
1. Boil the Stock
In a saucepan, bring stock to a boil. Stir in saffron and a pinch of salt. Lower to a simmer.
2. Sauté the Base
In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil. Add onion, garlic, cinnamon, ginger, and vegetables. Cook over medium heat (~175–190°C / 350–375°F) for 10–12 minutes.
3. Add the Rice & Spices
Stir in rice, white pepper, turmeric, and cumin. Pour in saffron stock. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer & Steam
Cover and cook over low heat (~70–80°C / 160–175°F) for 35–40 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Serve
Fluff with a fork and garnish with cilantro.
🛒 Choosing Ingredients
✔ Long-Grain Rice – Basmati works best for its light, fluffy texture and ability to absorb flavor
✔ Saffron – Use high-quality threads; crushing and blooming in warm stock maximizes aroma and color
✔ Butter & Olive Oil – A blend adds richness and helps create a flavorful sauté base
✔ Cinnamon Sticks – Use whole sticks for a subtle warmth and easy removal
✔ Vegetables – Fresh or frozen peas, diced carrots, and red bell pepper offer color, sweetness, and nutrients
✔ Spices – Ground turmeric, cumin, ginger, and white pepper build earthy depth without overpowering
✔ Stock – Use low-sodium vegetable or chicken stock; adds body and flavor to the rice
👩🍳 Preparation
✔ Rinse the Rice – Rinse basmati rice until water runs clear to remove excess starch and prevent clumping
✔ Bloom Saffron – Stir crushed saffron into hot (not boiling) stock to draw out its color and aroma
✔ Preheat Skillet – Heat butter and oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat (~175–190°C / 350–375°F)
✔ Cook the Base Slowly – Sauté onion, garlic, and vegetables for 10–12 minutes until soft and golden
🔥 Cooking Techniques & Temperatures
✔ Add Rice + Spices – Stir rice with cumin, turmeric, and white pepper until grains are well coated
✔ Simmer Gently – Pour in saffron-infused stock, bring to a light simmer (~90–95°C / 195–203°F)
✔ Cover & Steam – Reduce to low heat (~70–80°C / 160–175°F), cover tightly, and cook for 35–40 minutes
✔ Don’t Lift the Lid – Steam must stay trapped to cook rice evenly
✔ Check for Doneness – Rice is ready when tender and liquid is fully absorbed
🍳 Balancing Flavors
✔ Season Gradually – Taste before serving and adjust salt if using pre-salted stock
✔ Herb Finish – Stir in fresh cilantro at the end for brightness and color contrast
✔ Optional Add-ins – Add golden raisins, slivered almonds, or preserved lemon for extra Moroccan flair
✔ Heat Tip – A pinch of cayenne or harissa on the side adds gentle warmth without overpowering the dish
📦 Storage
✔ Fridge – Keeps well in an airtight container for up to 4 days
✔ Freezer-Friendly – Cool fully before freezing in portions for up to 2 months
✔ Reheat Gently – Add a splash of water and reheat covered over medium-low heat (~65–75°C / 150–170°F) to keep it moist
✔ Meal Prep Tip – Makes a great base for grain bowls with roasted chickpeas or leftover grilled meat
🍽 Serving
✔ Serve With – Grilled chicken, lamb, harissa tofu, or as part of a mezze platter
✔ Garnish Ideas – Fresh herbs, lemon wedges, toasted pine nuts or almonds
✔ Presentation Tip – Serve directly from the skillet or molded into domes using small bowls
✔ Perfect For – Meatless mains, weeknight dinners, or globally inspired side dishes