Name: Rice Pilaf with Lamb, Carrots, and Raisins
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 hr
Yield: Makes 8 to 10 (main course) servings
Ingredients: 3 cups basmati rice (7 ounces); 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 1/2 pounds boneless lamb shank (from 2 1/4 pounds bone-in shanks), cut into 1 1/2- to 2-inch pieces; 4 1/2 to 5 cups water, divided; 2 large carrots, cut into 1/8-inch-thick matchsticks; 1 cup raisins (6 ounces); Accompaniments: chicken kebabs and cilantro garlic yogurt sauce

This lamb-rich, Uzbek-style pilaf is typical of the fare served by northern Afghans to mark festive occasions. Despite the absence of spices and herbs, it is a surprisingly complex dish.

Cooks' notes:

• Rice can be rinsed, soaked, and drained 1 day ahead and chilled in a bowl, covered.
• Carrots can be cut 1 day ahead and kept in a sealed bag lined with a dampened paper towel.
• Lamb (before adding rice, carrots, and raisins) can be braised 1 day ahead. Transfer to a bowl and chill, uncovered, until cool, then covered. Reheat before proceeding with recipe.

Recipe notes

Chocolate Guinness Cake

A generous glug of stout gives this snackable loaf a malty depth.

Super Seedy Power Cookies

As energizing as an energy bar, with a much simpler ingredient list.

Hot Honey–Glazed Salmon

This broiled hot honey salmon recipe results in sweet, spicy, glossy fish coated in a homemade hot honey glaze for an easy weeknight dinner or make-ahead lunch.

Golden Mushroom Soup With Orzo & a Pat of Butter

This is the type of soup that, at first glance, might seem a little…unexciting. But you’re underestimating the power of mushrooms, which do the heavy lifting.

Caramelized Onion Pasta

Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.

Classic French Vinaigrette

Use this simple vinaigrette to dress a plate of greens, some steamed potatoes, or anything else that strikes your fancy.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

One-Pot Chicken Thighs With Cilantro Rice and Beans

This one-pot dinner cooks chicken thighs directly on top of a bed of flavorful cilantro rice studded with black beans for a complete dinner.