Fragrant, Spiced Rice the East African Way
Pilau is one of Tanzania’s most beloved dishes — a celebration of spices, rice, and rich flavor, often served at gatherings, holidays, and Sunday lunches. Now you can make this East African classic right at home with a few pantry staples!
🍚 Ingredients:
- 2 cups Raha Shop long-grain rice
- 500g beef or chicken (optional)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp Raha Shop Pilau Masala
- 1 tsp whole cumin seeds
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 4 cardamom pods
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 whole cloves
- 3 tbsp cooking oil
- 3 ½ cups water or beef/chicken stock
- 1 potato, peeled and diced (optional, but traditional!)
- Salt to taste
🔥 Instructions:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.
- In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add the onions and fry until golden brown and caramelized. This adds amazing depth to the flavor.
- Add the garlic, ginger, and all the spices (Pilau masala, cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper). Stir for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the meat and cook until browned. If using potatoes, toss them in now.
- Pour in the water or stock, add salt to taste, and bring it to a boil.
- Stir in the rinsed rice, reduce the heat to low, cover tightly, and let it simmer for about 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water is fully absorbed.
- Fluff gently with a fork. Serve hot with a side of kachumbari (fresh tomato and onion salad) or a dollop of plain yogurt.
🛒 Make It With Raha Shop:
Get your Pilau Masala, long-grain rice, and whole spices fresh from our store — straight from Tanzania to your kitchen.