Fennel rice with golden raisins

Fennel rice with golden raisins combines the sweet zest of raisins and the aromatic flair of fennel with hearty white rice. Easy to prepare, it's a versatile dish suitable as a side or light main course.

03 Jan 2026
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1/3 cup raisins
3 tbsp olive oil
1 cup white rice
1/2 tsp fennel seeds
1 onion
1 bulb fennel
2 cups water

Fennel rice with golden raisins is a delightful and aromatic dish that brings together the sweetness of raisins, the subtle anise-like flavor of fennel, and the heartiness of white rice. This dish is easy to prepare, making it a perfect side for any meal or a light main course on its own.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Rinse the white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
- Finely chop the onion.
- Trim the fennel bulb, removing the stalks and tough outer layer. Slice the bulb thinly.
- Measure out and set aside the fennel seeds and raisins.

2. Soak Raisins:
- Place the raisins in a small bowl and cover them with hot water. Let them soak for about 10 minutes to plump up. Drain the water and set the raisins aside.

3. Cook Vegetables:
- Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan or pot over medium heat.
- Add the fennel seeds and cook, stirring frequently, for about 1 minute until they release their fragrance.
- Add the chopped onion and sliced fennel bulb to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Add Rice:
- Once the vegetables are softened, add the drained rice to the pan. Stir well to coat the rice in the oil and combine it with the vegetables. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.

5. Add Water and Cook Rice:
- Pour in 2 cups of water. Stir to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
- Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes until the rice is cooked and the water is fully absorbed.

6. Add Raisins and Finish:
- Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat. Fluff the rice with a fork.
- Gently fold in the soaked and drained raisins.
- Cover the pan and let it sit for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

7. Serve:
- After resting, give the rice one final fluff with a fork.
- Serve the fennel rice with golden raisins warm, as a lovely side dish or a light main course.

Your fennel rice with golden raisins is now ready to be served. The combination of the sweet raisins and the fragrant fennel creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that is sure to impress. Enjoy your aromatic and delectable dish!

Fennel rice with golden raisins FAQ:

How long does it take to cook fennel rice?

The cooking time for fennel rice is about 15-18 minutes once the rice is added to the boiling water. Additionally, allow for 5 minutes of resting time after cooking to let the flavors meld.

Can I substitute other types of rice for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute other types of rice, but keep in mind that cooking times and water ratios may vary. For example, brown rice will take longer to cook, typically around 30-40 minutes.

What should I do if the rice is undercooked?

If the rice is undercooked after the specified time, add a small amount of water and cover the pot, cooking for an additional few minutes on low heat until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.

How should I store leftovers of fennel rice?

Store any leftover fennel rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

Can I use fresh fennel instead of fennel seeds?

Yes, you can use finely chopped fresh fennel in place of fennel seeds, but the flavor will be milder. Use about 1/2 cup of chopped fresh fennel to replace the seeds.

Tips:

- For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting the fennel seeds slightly before adding them to the dish.

- Rinse the white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove any excess starch and results in fluffier rice.

- Chop the fennel bulb and onion into uniformly sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Add a bit of salt and pepper to taste when you add the water, for a more balanced flavor.

- For a more distinct flavor profile, you can toast the rice in olive oil for a few minutes before adding water.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 230kcal
Protein 4.65g
Carbohydrates 55g
Fiber 3.48g
Sugar 12g
Fat 11g

Fennel rice with golden raisins