Description
This delightful saffron basmati rice is filled with rich flavors from nuts and dried fruits, making it a perfect side dish or main meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
- 2 tablespoons hot water (for saffron)
- 1/4 cup dried barberries or dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 1/4 cup pistachios
- 1/3 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/4 cup golden raisins
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 3 tablespoons butter or ghee (divided)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Water for boiling
Instructions
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak it in salted water for 30 minutes.
- Boil water in a large pot and cook the rice for 6–8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Crush saffron with a mortar and pestle, mix with 2 tablespoons hot water, and steep.
- In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter and sauté almonds, pistachios, raisins, and chopped apricots for 2–3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt another tablespoon of butter and caramelize the onion until golden and soft. Set aside.
- In a heavy-bottomed pot, layer half of the rice. Sprinkle with saffron water and orange zest. Repeat with the remaining rice. Cover tightly and steam over low heat for 20–30 minutes.
- Gently fluff the rice and fold in the sautéed fruits, nuts, caramelized onions, and barberries. Garnish with extra toppings and a drizzle of remaining saffron water.
Notes
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats or a side salad.
- Adjust the amount of dried fruits and nuts according to your preference.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg