Macadamia Nut Rice Pilaf

Macadamia Nut Rice Pilaf is a savory, aromatic rice dish where fluffy grains are cooked with toasted macadamia nuts, often alongside onions, garlic, and herbs. This dish likely originated in Hawaii or other Pacific regions where macadamia nuts are a local specialty, blending traditional pilaf techniques with a prized local ingredient. It serves as a versatile side dish that complements both seafood and poultry.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This pilaf is a carbohydrate-rich dish with a notable boost in healthy monounsaturated fats from the macadamia nuts, which also contribute some plant-based protein. A typical serving provides around 300-400 calories, along with key nutrients like manganese, thiamine, and magnesium from the rice and nuts.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	410 kcal
Protein	7 g
Carbs	52 g
Fat	20 g
Fiber	4 g
Sugar	3 g
Sodium	380 mg
Manganese	1.8 mg
Thiamin (B1)	0.3 mg
Magnesium	65 mg
Phosphorus	145 mg
Copper	0.4 mg
Iron	2.5 mg
Selenium	12 mcg
Potassium	210 mg

Per 1 cup (200 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, this dish represents a fusion of culinary traditions, marrying the Middle Eastern/European pilaf method with a uniquely Hawaiian ingredient. Nutritionally, the macadamia nuts are interesting because they contain one of the highest levels of monounsaturated fats of any nut, which are associated with heart health.