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Instant Pot Harissa-Spiced Rice with Dates and Orange Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 78 reviews

This vibrant and aromatic Instant Pot-inspired harissa-spiced basmati rice combines sweet medjool dates and fresh orange zest and juice for a delightful balance of flavors. The harissa paste adds a warm, smoky heat, while the caramelized onions bring depth and richness. Perfect as a side dish or a flavorful base for various Moroccan-inspired meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 tablespoons harissa paste
  • 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed until water runs clear (do not use brown rice)
  • 6 medjool dates, pitted and diced
  • 1 orange, zested and juiced

Instructions

  1. Sauté Onions: In a large skillet over high heat, heat the olive oil until it shimmers. Add the finely chopped onions, reduce heat to medium, and sprinkle with a pinch of kosher salt. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add Garlic and Bay Leaf: Add the minced garlic and bay leaf to the onions, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add Harissa Paste: Stir in 2 tablespoons of harissa paste, ensuring it is well incorporated with the onion and garlic mixture.
  4. Toast Rice and Add Fruits: Add the rinsed basmati rice to the pan, stirring for about a minute until each grain is coated and glistening. Mix in the diced medjool dates and the orange zest.
  5. Add Liquid and Simmer: Squeeze the orange to extract the juice, then add enough water to reach 1 and 1/3 cups of liquid total. Pour this mixture into the pan along with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir gently to combine.
  6. Cook Rice: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Cook undisturbed for 20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  7. Let Stand and Fluff: Remove the pan from heat and allow the rice to stand, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, scraping up any caramelized bits from the bottom of the pan to mix in for extra flavor.
  8. Serve: Serve the harissa-spiced rice warm as a flavorful side dish or base for Moroccan-inspired meals.

Notes

  • Rinsing the basmati rice before cooking helps remove excess starch and prevents sticking.
  • If you prefer milder heat, reduce the amount of harissa paste accordingly.
  • Caramelized rice bits at the bottom add delicious flavor—be sure to scrape them up gently when fluffing.
  • Medjool dates provide sweetness; substitute with other dried fruits like raisins or apricots if desired.
  • This dish pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a base for stews.

Keywords: harissa rice, Moroccan rice recipe, instant pot style rice, basmati rice with dates, spiced rice with orange, harissa spiced rice

Find it online: https://mixitwitjoe.com/instant-pot-harissa-spiced-rice-with-dates-and-orange-recipe/